Former Duke Health nurse indicted for sex crimes against patients

Charges Filed Against Jomil Tugado for Sexual Crimes

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) — A grand jury has charged Jomil Tugado with sexual crimes against three patients at Duke University Hospital.

Tugado faces multiple charges, including sexual battery, involving three women who were patients in May and December of 2025.

New court documents state that two women were incapacitated and one had a mental disability.

Victim Statements and Reactions

ABC11 contacted all three victims. Two responded with a statement.

The following statement is from David Sherlin, the attorney representing one of the victims:

“I have been in touch with Duke University Health System and its legal team regarding my firm’s representation of a victim who was recently sexually assaulted at Duke Hospital. While the case is in its early stages, I want to thank law enforcement for its prompt response and to Duke and its attorneys who are handling this matter with the gravity and sensitivity it deserves. Our client is truly courageous in making sure her voice is heard, as are the other victims who have stepped forward.”

The mother of another victim told ABC11 she is “hurt and sad” for her daughter and wants accountability. She stated her daughter was violated while she was vulnerable.

Expert Comments on the Situation

“These types of complaints are very infrequent, but are still very serious,” said Sara Griffith of the North Carolina Board of Nursing.

Griffith, the Chief Nursing Officer, noted that out of 188,000 registered and licensed practical nurses in North Carolina, about 1% receive any disciplinary action related to complaints.

Tina Gordon of the North Carolina Nurses Association previously stated, “these allegations are beyond horrifying, and our primary concern is for the victims,” but “this type of incident is exceedingly rare and we hope most people discern that this is not representative of the rest of the profession.”

Legal Proceedings and Duke Health Response

Tugado has hired an attorney and is expected to appear in court in February, according to court documents.

Duke Health officials confirmed that Tugado has been terminated and is no longer employed by Duke Health. His license was also suspended on the day of his arrest.

Duke Health has a “zero-tolerance policy for sexual misconduct and takes all allegations of inappropriate behavior seriously.”

Duke Health officials encourage any patients who have witnessed or experienced inappropriate conduct to call their hotline.