Journey nurse accused of sexually assaulting affected person at Missouri hospital; police search data from native former sufferers

COVINGTON, Tenn. (WMC) – Covington police are looking for potential extra victims and witnesses after a West Tennessee journey nurse was charged in Missouri in a hospital sexual assault case.

Court paperwork say 42-year-old James Todd of Ripley, faces two counts of first-degree sodomy or tried sodomy, one rely of first-degree rape or tried rape, and one rely of first-degree sexual abuse in Phelps County, Missouri.

On June 5, the Rolla Police Department was referred to as to Phelps Health Hospital after a affected person reported that Todd, a contract nurse on the hospital, sexually assaulted her whereas she was within the emergency room.

The sufferer advised investigators she was within the ER for low potassium ranges. After she was transported by ambulance to a hospital room, Todd allegedly entered the room and began an IV in her arm. She stated he then sexually assaulted her. The sufferer additionally advised police Todd was not sporting a reputation tag on the time.

Police later interviewed Todd. He advised investigators the sufferer was “very intoxicated and belligerent,” with an alcohol degree of 0.344. Todd stated there was no inappropriate contact past normal nursing care, based on the possible trigger assertion.

Investigators obtained video from a Phelps Health safety officer that police say reveals Todd committing sexual acts towards the sufferer.

Todd is being held within the Phelps County Jail with out bond.

Action News 5 confirmed Todd labored at Tennessee College of Applied Technology Covington 10 years in the past as a sensible nursing teacher. Covington police investigators suspect there are potential native victims and are asking former sufferers who could have had contact with him—and who consider they could have info associated to a felony investigation—to contact police.

“We want to ensure that anyone who may have information related to this individual has a safe avenue to come forward,” Chief Donna Turner stated. “Our detectives are prepared to review any information provided and coordinate with the appropriate law enforcement agencies as needed.”

Officials affirm Todd labored at Tennessee College of Applied Technology previously, however left on his personal and was not fired.

Anyone with info is inspired to contact the Covington Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at (901) 475-1261.

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