A mental health nurse has been accused of raping a teenage patient multiple times at the hospital where he worked. Michael Cabanalan, aged 35, faces charges of second-degree rape and other sexual offenses for the alleged assault on the 17-year-old at a psychiatric facility in Baltimore County, United States.
According to police reports, Cabanalan solicited the victim’s phone number and Instagram details on September 4. Subsequently, he was observed entering the girl’s hospital room repeatedly during a night with no surveillance cameras, where the sexual assaults reportedly took place.
Authorities stated that the victim, who had mental disabilities impairing her ability to consent to sexual activity, was discharged from the hospital on September 8. Despite this, Cabanalan purportedly picked her up from her residence and proceeded to sexually assault her at his home on two occasions.
The teenager’s mother noticed her daughter’s absence and used an app to locate her. Upon being confronted by her mother, the victim disclosed the rape and assaults. The mother reported the incident to Child Protective Services, leading to police involvement and notification of the Sheppard Pratt hospital on September 11.
Following the allegations, Sheppard Pratt hospital suspended Cabanalan and later terminated his employment. The Baltimore County Police apprehended the nurse on October 21. In response to the situation, Sheppard Pratt issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to a safe environment and collaboration with investigative authorities.
Cabanalan is currently held without bail at the Baltimore County Detention Center. Baltimore Country Police Department urges potential victims or individuals with relevant information to come forward and assist in the investigation.