Former Florida Paramedic Sentenced for Assaulting Unconscious Patient

A former paramedic from Florida has received a ten-year prison sentence after being found guilty of sexually assaulting an unconscious woman while she was in an ambulance, capturing the act on video.

James Melady, 39, will also serve five years of suspended time upon his release and is required to register as a sex offender.

RJ LaRiza, the State Attorney, expressed strong condemnation of Melady’s actions after the sentencing, describing them as “abhorrent” and “psychotic.” LaRiza stressed that Melady, who was supposed to be a first responder, violated his duty to provide care.

In October 2021, while working for Flagler County Fire Rescue, Melady was accused of assaulting a patient during transport to the hospital. Detectives later discovered two video clips on his cellphone allegedly showing the assault inside the ambulance.

Authorities reported that Melady claimed he was conducting a medical examination at the time, during which he filmed himself touching the patient’s genitals. After speaking with the victim, detectives learned she had no awareness of the assault taking place.

The jury ultimately convicted Melady of sexual assault against a person over 18 years old, but he was found not guilty of video voyeurism. It’s worth noting that he also has two unrelated theft cases pending in Flagler and Volusia counties, where it’s alleged he stole credit cards and personal information from patients to make fraudulent purchases.