First responder allegedly sexually abused unconscious woman in ambulance

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Gray News) – A Florida paramedic is accused of sexually assaulting an unconscious woman in an ambulance while on duty.

According to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office, 37-year-old James Melady was arrested Wednesday on charges of sexual abuse of a helpless person and video voyeurism.

Authorities said Daytona Beach police began investigating Melady after a video surfaced showing him on duty and in uniform harassing an unconscious woman in Flagler County while performing his official duties.

The reported incident occurred in October 2021 and the woman was a resident of Flager County.

Flager County authorities said first responders were called to her home and she was taken to a hospital in the Palm Coast area.

According to investigators, the video in question showed Melady abusing the unconscious woman. They met the woman, who was unaware of the incident.

Investigators said Melady confessed to his crimes during questioning. He also said he retired from the Flagler County Fire Department earlier this year.

Melady was arrested on a Daytona Police Department warrant and is currently being held without bail in the Volusia County Jail.

“It is unbelievable to me what this offender did to an unconscious victim while on duty, when he was supposed to be providing emergency medical care, and instead sexually assaulted her,” said Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. “I am thankful we were able to get him off the streets quickly and put him in jail where he belongs.”

The sheriff's office said anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Melady should call 386-313-4911.

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