A nurse is behind bars in Orlando after a disabled patient at a downtown hospital told police he touched her inappropriately and gave her medication even after she said no. Officers arrested 46-year-old Abedinecho Katue and booked him on charges that include sexual battery and lewd or lascivious molestation. The report has rattled patients and visitors, especially because the woman’s mobility and ability to refuse care were limited.
According to court records and reporting by WFTV, investigators say Katue walked into the patient’s room at AdventHealth Orlando, told her he wanted to give her “special care,” called her attractive, and “invited her to Kenya several times.” The victim, who police say had an amputated leg and a cast on her left foot, reportedly recorded the nurse saying, “I can’t remember the last time I took care of such a young, black, beautiful girl like you,” then later told staff he gave her an unknown medication after she told him to stop. Visitors expressed alarm, with one telling reporters, “If it happens to that person, it could happen to anyone.”
Where the alleged assault took place
Investigators say the alleged assault happened at AdventHealth Orlando’s downtown campus. AdventHealth lists its main hospital at 601 East Rollins Street in downtown Orlando, a large facility that includes multiple inpatient units and specialty centers.
Charges, license status and legal context
Katue is charged with sexual battery and lewd or lascivious molestation of a disabled patient, with an arraignment set for March 16 at 8:15 a.m., according to WFTV. The Florida Department of Health’s online records are reported to show that his nursing license is currently active and scheduled to expire in April. Under state law, sexual battery and lewd or lascivious offenses involving elderly or disabled people are felony level crimes; Florida's sexual-violence guidance outlines the related statutes and potential penalties.
What’s next
Orlando police say the investigation is still underway, and prosecutors are expected to review the case ahead of the March court date. The allegations have refocused attention on how hospitals protect patients who may not be able to clearly object to treatment or report abuse on their own.
