Washington, March 11: A 26-year-old hospital staff member was arrested for alleged sexual abuse and molestation of a 14-year-old patient at Phoenix’s St Luke’s Hospital.
MyFox Phoenix reported today staff members called local police after a 14-year-old girl came forward to report she was touched inappropriately by a male medical worker on February 28.
Eddie Parker, 26, is a psychiatric technician in the Behavioural Health Center who works with patients admitted for behavioural issues.
The 14-year-old was admitted for being suicidal.
The victim told detectives that Parker entered her room and began kissing her on the lips.
According to the report, he left and returned to the room several times, getting progressively bolder each time.
On the fourth occasion, detectives said, Parker’s hands went under the victim’s clothing and he touched and penetrated her.
At one point, Parker allegedly asked her if she would go into another room to have sex, and whether she “liked it.”
When Parker was interviewed, he first denied the allegations – but later admitted to sexual touch while denying penetration.
He admitted to knowing she was 14 years of age.
The hospital said, “patient safety is our top priority. Upon the report of a patient allegation, we took immediate and appropriate action.”
Parker was charged with four counts of sexual abuse, molestation and sexual conduct with a minor.
He was being held without bond and his next court appearance was due later Thursday.
—Agencies