A Sumter chiropractor is facing charges that he sexually assaulted a female patient, authorities said.

Dr. John Guilds, 60, was arrested on charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and simple possession of marijuana about 7 p.m. Friday at the Sumter Neck and Back Center, according to a news release issued Monday by the Sumter Police Department. During the search, police said, a small quantity of marijuana was located and seized from Guilds' office.

According to Sumter police, a 39-year-old woman said that on May 7, Guilds sexually assaulted her after giving her pills thought to be the prescription medication Xanax and an alcoholic beverage. Authorities added that the woman reported the incident on May 8.

Maj. Alvin Holston said Guilds was released on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond Saturday afternoon, which means he didn't have to pay any money. During the investigation, Holston confirmed that the woman helped by agreeing to taking part in the surveillance of Guilds. He declined to described the method of surveillance.

"She assisted in the investigation and provided to law enforcement information that she felt on a visit that she had been sexually assaulted," Holston said. "A joint undercover investigation assisted by the State Law Enforcement Division was initiated, and as a result we were able to verify or reveal the information reported that led to charges to Dr. Guilds."

Holston said the surveillance process is normal procedure.

"This is one of several police procedures we do to verify incidents and complaints," Holston said.

Dr. John McGinnis, who works with Guilds at the chiropractor center, said he wasn't working the day Guilds was arrested. McGinnis said he has known Guilds for 13 years and considers him a good person.

"He is thought of as a caring doctor, devoted husband and devoted father," McGinnis said.

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