Nurse at UNC Rex Hospital charged with sexually assaulting patients under sedation
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- Raleigh police arrested a traveling nurse accused of assaulting sedated patients.
- Detectives found two victims and warned the victim count could increase.
- Police urged possible victims to report incidents and offered trauma counseling.
Raleigh police have charged a 28-year-old nurse with sexually assaulting at least two sedated patients at UNC Rex Hospital, warning that there may be additional victims.
Brayan Alvarez Ortiz remained in custody Wednesday on charges of sexual contact under the context of medical treatment; second-degree sex offense; and sexual battery.
Lt. David Davis said officers responded to UNC Rex Hospital on Nov. 21 following reports that a nurse had assaulted a patient under anesthesia. Detectives located a second victim during their investigation.
“There is a chance there are other victims,” Davis said.
UNC Health spokesman Alan Wolf said Ortiz joined the Rex staff in 2019, put himself through nursing school and had only become a nurse this summer. He is no longer employed with the health system, Wolf said.
The NC Nursing Board suspended Ortiz’ registered nurse license after a complaint on Nov. 21, records show.
The report said Ortiz had improperly touched the genitals of two male patients after removing Foley catheters, which go into the urethra.
Davis stressed that trauma counseling is available for further victims who come forward.
“We believe you,” said Courtney Fisher, trauma counselor for Raleigh police. “We would like you to come forward. We have resources for you.”
Davis was not able to provide information about victims’ ages or genders due to privacy concerns.
UNC Health spokesman Alan Wolf said Ortiz joined the Rex staff in 2019, put himself through nursing school and had only become a nurse this summer.
“We are outraged by the allegations, and our hearts are with the patients involved and their families,” Wolf said Wednesday. “We take all allegations of inappropriate behavior seriously. In those situations, we conduct our own investigations and cooperate with law enforcement. This individual has been terminated and is no longer employed by the organization.
“Our highest priority is always the health, privacy, well-being and safety of our patients. We are grateful for law enforcement and the N.C. Board of Nursing for their cooperation in this matter.”
Rex has set up a confidential reporting phone line where patients or family members can share information. Someone will contact them as soon as possible to discuss any concerns about this situation. The number is (919) 784-1800.
This story was originally published December 10, 2025 at 3:40 PM.