FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — A nurse accused of groping at least two women who were under anesthesia was arrested by Sandy Springs police.
Michael Morgan is in the Fulton County jail without bond.
Police told Channel 2's Mike Petchenik that the crimes came to light after Morgan's pastors contacted detectives a few weeks ago.
"We believe a pastor had talked to Mr. Morgan about this and then came and reported the crime to us," said Sgt. Sam Worsham.
Worsham said investigators believe that the women were assaulted between February and April 2017 at North Crescent Endoscopy /Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates on Peachtree Dunwoody Road.
TRENDING STORIES:
- Star basketball player killed at college acceptance party
- Teen dies after ingesting large amounts of caffeine, coroner says
- Falcons players thank firefighters from I-85 collapse (VIDEO)
“While the female victims were in recovery, still under anesthesia, (he) was performing, not sexual acts on them, but sexual battery," Worsham said.
An incident report said the pastors told police that “Mr. Morgan looked at these women inappropriately and lifted their bras and had contact with their breast.”
“We’re asking anyone if they have further information about this case to contact (the) Sandy Springs Police Department,” said Worsham. “That’s what’s concerning about this case. You are under anesthesia, you have a lot of trust in the facility you’re in.”
Petchenik received a statement from the medical practice’s managing partner, Dr. Steven Morris:
“It has come to our attention that a former employee of Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates is involved in an investigation. We take patient safety very seriously and are shocked and concerned about this allegation. We conduct background checks as part of our hiring process and have procedures in place to maintain a safe environment for our patients, visitors, and staff. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation and cannot provide any additional information.”
Visitors to the sprawling medical complex on Monday told Petchenik the allegations shocked them.
“Whatever is done in the dark will come to the light,” said Tonya Walker. “I would feel violated and I would want the person punished for that indiscretion of my body.”
Patient David Quinn said he believes that the pastors did the right thing and hopes Morgan faces prison time.
“It’s a terrible thing to do to someone, and they should pursue the full extent of the law against him,” he said.