A doctor whose name was used to order silicone handled a Philadelphia woman accused of giving a lethal buttocks injection testified Tuesday that he had an affair with the so-called “Black Madam.”
Padge Victoria Windslowe is accused of injecting liquid silicone into the buttocks of several women. One of those women, 20-year-old Claudia Aderotimi, died after the substance spread to her heart and lungs.
On Tuesday, members of the jury learned how Windslowe allegedly obtained food grade silicone to fuel her side business. Dr. James Taterka, a local Gastroenterology Specialist at Hillmont G.I., was questioned by prosecution lawyers about silicone shipments ordered using the name of his Flourtown practice.
“My practice doesn’t use silicone,” Taterka explained, as the jury viewed at least 15 shipments claiming to be for Hillmont G.I.
Taterka also admitted to having an affair with Windslowe. He said it happened for about 3-months, in 1993. He said he quickly ended the relationship out of respect for his wife and children but their communication didn’t stop there.
“I never initiated contact,” he said, while explaining Windslowe’s desire to call him during difficult financial situations.
Taterka said he bought a car for Windslowe and gave her $10,000. He explained his fear of possible retaliation from Windslowe. The jury heard examples of previous incidents of retaliation by Windslowe – including the time she allegedly sent a naked picture of Taterka to his home. A letter addressed to his wife was included, Taterka claimed.
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But the defense took a different angle – asking Taterka whether he ever taught Windslowe how to properly use a syringe. Lawyers cited their extensive on-and-off relationship, and Taterka’s loyalty to her desires.
“I would never do anything unethical to the medical community,” Taterka explained while denying the claims.
Prosecutors later presented two Food & Drug Administration chemists. Both examined items seized after the 2011 death, belonging to Windslowe. The chemists said items contained silicone, but they were unable to determine exactly what kind of silicone each item was comprised of.
The defense pounced – asking if either of the two labeled bottles, containing silicone, included warnings to call poison control if improperly used.
“I don’t think so,” said Dr. Adam Lanarotta, a 7-year veteran with the FDA Chemistry Center.
When a plastic surgery expert took the stand, prosecutors focused on the proper methods of plastic surgery. Dr. Robert Noone explained how to perform a legal buttock enhancement. The Board certified plastic surgeon said liquid silicone should never be injected into someone’s rear end. Gel silicone packets, similar to those used in breast implants, would be used to prevent potential spreading.
After reviewing a medical examiner’s report for two victims allegedly linked to Windslowe’s business, he concluded the reports were correct and that silicone spread throughout the bodies of both victims. One, however, was able to recover.
Closing arguments are expected to begin within the next two weeks.
NBC10 will continue to follow this trial as it develops.
