FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. – Flagler County Fire Rescue (FCFR) implemented new protocols in response to the former paramedic who was caught on video sexually abusing an unconscious patient.
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Officials said they immediately implemented the following safety and security measures:
- Mandatory Two-Person Protocol – All ambulances will now have two personnel riding in the back when patients are considered vulnerable or underage to ensure additional oversight and support.
- Psychological Evaluations – Mandatory psychological evaluations will be conducted for all Fire Rescue new employees to support their mental health and professional conduct. Officials said this procedure was implemented before knowledge of the incident and will continue.
- Enhanced Surveillance – Current external 360-degree cameras used for driver awareness will have an additional camera installed in the back of all vehicles for awareness of activities in the patient compartment for additional safety.
- Rescue Supervisor on All Ambulances – In August, before awareness of this criminal allegation, Fire Rescue established the Rescue Supervisor position for all ambulances within the county to ensure oversight on all units.
“These actions reflect our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the people we serve,” Fire Rescue Chief Michael Tucker said. “We want to emphasize that the actions of one individual do not reflect the dedication and heroism of our entire team. The men and women of Flagler County Fire Rescue are life-saving heroes who work tirelessly to protect and serve our community. The arrest of this individual for his alleged depraved criminality does not diminish the exceptional and compassionate work performed by our entire team every day.”
James Melady “confessed to his crimes” of video voyeurism when interviewed by detectives who coordinated with the Daytona Beach Police Department and found the video on his phone while investigating a separate crime.
“We want to express concern and extend our support to the victim and her family,” County Administrator Heidi Petito said. “The actions described are deeply disturbing and completely contrary to the values of our organization, and the principles we uphold in our service to the community.”
Officials said Melady was put on administrative leave on May 8 after failing a drug test for a medication that he no longer had a prescription for.
He resigned and hasn’t worked for FCFR in the past four months.