Full Breakdown
Duke University Hospital Nurse Charged with Sexual Assaults
1/2/2026, 11:28:32 AM
Overview of the Allegations
Jomil Uy Tugado, a 39-year-old nurse at Duke University Hospital, has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of sexually assaulting patients. The allegations include sexual battery and sexual acts by a government or private institution employee, with incidents reported involving two female patients while they were incapacitated. The first incident allegedly occurred in May 2025, followed by another on December 6, 2025. A third victim has since come forward, leading to additional charges.
Employment and Immediate Actions
Tugado began his employment at Duke Health in July 2023. Following the allegations, he was placed on administrative leave on December 7, 2025, and subsequently terminated from his position. His nursing license was suspended on the same day as his arrest, which took place on December 18, 2025. He is currently being held without bond, with his next court appearance scheduled for January 2026.
Official Responses
Duke Health officials confirmed Tugado's termination and emphasized their commitment to patient safety. The North Carolina Nurses Association expressed deep concern over the allegations, stating, "These allegations are beyond horrifying, and our primary concern is for the victims." They highlighted the importance of trust in the nursing profession and supported a zero-tolerance policy for such incidents.
Criticism & Opposition
The allegations against Tugado have sparked outrage within the nursing community and among the public. Critics argue that such incidents undermine the trust patients place in healthcare professionals. The North Carolina Nurses Association noted that while these incidents are exceedingly rare, they are damaging to the reputation of the vast majority of nurses who uphold ethical standards in patient care.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Tugado faces three felony counts related to sexual contact and penetration under the guise of medical treatment, as well as three misdemeanor charges of sexual battery, the exact number of victims has varied in reports. Initially, two victims were mentioned, but a third has since been identified, raising questions about the extent of the alleged misconduct.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The North Carolina Nurses Association released the following statement in response to these incidents: "These allegations are beyond horrifying, and our primary concern is for the victims.” — North Carolina Nurses Association
- “Patients should always be able to trust every member of their care team; that's especially important when they are at their most vulnerable.” — North Carolina Nurses Association
What's Next
As the legal proceedings unfold, Tugado's case will continue to be monitored closely. The North Carolina Board of Nursing is expected to conduct further investigations into the allegations, and Duke Health has encouraged any patients who may have experienced inappropriate conduct to report it through their hotline.
