TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A behavioral health specialist at Banner South Behavioral Health Unit faces multiple felony charges after allegedly sexually assaulting a patient under his care, according to court documents.
Jose Jacob Chavez, 41, was arrested and charged with two counts of sexual assault, three counts of sexual abuse and one count of kidnapping. The alleged incidents occurred during his overnight shift from 7 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. on May 30 and 31.
According to court documents, the victim is a patient who was court-ordered to treatment at the facility. She told officers that Chavez overheard her discussing body piercings with other patients on the evening of May 30.
After the victim went to her room for bed, she reported Chavez allegedly entered her room at least 10 times while she was in and out of sleep. He reportedly told the victim she was going to get him in trouble as he kissed her and groped her body, court documents revealed.
Chavez allegedly placed a trash receptacle in front of the door during one visit. During the last visit, the victim reported to officers that Chavez told her to remove her pants before he sexually assaulted her, according to court documents.
The victim reported she did not feel free to leave the secured psychological unit and feared she would be sedated or restrained if she yelled for help.
The victim called her mother as soon as she was allowed to use a phone and then reported the incidents to a nurse. According to the interim complaint, Banner security reviewed surveillance footage and found Chavez entered the victim’s room 21 times during his shift, which officials described as abnormal.
Chavez initially denied physical contact with the victim after being detained. He later admitted to sexual contact but claimed the victim initiated it and he had a moment of weakness, court documents revealed.
Banner Health confirmed Chavez is no longer employed and released the following statement:
“At Banner Health, we hold ourselves and our team members to the highest standards of professionalism and conduct.
We are aware of an incident that occurred at one of our facilities. Upon learning of this matter, we immediately contacted law enforcement and have been cooperating fully with their investigation. The individual involved is no longer employed by Banner Health. As this is an active investigation, we are unable to provide additional details at this time.
Patient safety is our highest priority and we remain committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for every patient, visitor and team member. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement and provide updates as appropriate.”
Chavez is being held on a $50,000 bond.