Yuma, AZ - Jose Arias, an ER Nurse at Yuma Regional Medical Center Charged with Sexually Assaulting Three Patients

YRMC Nurse Arrested on Allegation of Sexually Abusing Three Patients

According to KYMA Channel 11, Yuma Police arrested 35-year-old Jose Arias on allegations of sexually abusing patients at the Yuma Regional Medical Center located at 2400 S Avenue A, Yuma, AZ 85364. 

On Friday, August 13, 2021, at approximately 10:45 p.m., the Yuma Police Department took Jose Arias into custody. Arias is employed at YRMC as an emergency nurse. He is being accused of sexually abusing three adult male patients at the hospital from December 2020 to August 2021. 

Arias faces charges of nine counts of sexual abuse in addition to one against a vulnerable adult or child. Police say that he is being cooperative during the ongoing investigation. YRMC put out a statement that they are assisting with the investigation and have place Arias on leave. 

Rights of Victims of Sexual Abuse at a Hospital

Attorney contributor Kevin Biniazan is a sexual abuse attorney with experience representing victims of abuse in civil lawsuits. Biniazan has provided his insight on the legal options of victims abused at a hospital below.

"Medical centers and hospitals have a legal obligation to provide a safe environment for the patients in their care. The staff and administration are trusted to provide adequate security measures to prevent abuse from occurring against the patients. Unfortunately, sometimes employees exploiting their positions of power abuse those in their care. Victims of such abuse should know they have legal rights and should secure the services of an experienced abuse attorney to determine if they have sufficient grounds to pursue a civil lawsuit."

"Victims and their families should question if the staff and administration did everything in their power to prevent abuse from occurring at the medical center or hospital. Often, abuse occurs due to third-party negligence, such as administration. An example of such negligence could include if misconduct was reported yet ignored by staff and others. These facilities could install cameras and other means of safeguards to ensure a high level of safety for the patients. Victims of abuse at medical centers and hospitals should know in cases of negligence they may be able to file a civil lawsuit and even receive compensation for damages."

Sources:

KYMA Channel 11