The Commercial Appeal
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A firefighter/paramedic with the Memphis Fire Department has been accused of inappropriately touching a 17-year-old girl who was a patient in his ambulance, according to police.
Joseph Hartsfield, 38, was booked into the Shelby County Jail around 9 a.m. Monday charged with two counts of sexual battery.
According to an arrest affidavit, the victim told police that Hartsfield asked her questions of a sexual manner while she was a patient in his ambulance on Jan. 8.
The victim told police that Hartsfield examined her breast and was “acting creepy” because of the sexual comments made during the exam. She said that she felt Hartsfield was touching her breasts in a sexual manner.
Memphis Fire Department spokesman Lt. Wayne Cooke said the department is aware of Hartsfield’s arrest.
“After he is released the administration will determine his job status,” Cooke said.
He said Hartsfield has worked with the department since October, 2008.
Monday, Hartsfield remained in jail. He is scheduled to make his first court appearance Tuesday.
Copyright 2015 The Commercial Appeal
All Rights Reserved