Nathan Sutherland also pleaded guilty to vulnerable adult abuse Sept. 2. The charges carry a sentence of 5.25 to 10 years in prison, Jennifer Liewer, a spokesperson for the Maricopa County (Ariz.) Attorney’s Office, said Sept. 2, according to the NBC News. His sentencing hearing is set for Nov. 4.
Mr. Sutherland was arrested in January 2019 and charged after DNA evidence matched him to the 29-year-old Hacienda patient’s baby. He voluntarily surrendered his nursing license and no longer works at the facility.
“After more than 2½ years, all of us at Hacienda Healthcare are relieved that Nathan Sutherland has finally pleaded guilty to his awful offenses. We have cooperated in every way possible with law enforcement and investigators. … Our hearts are with the victim and her family,” Hacienda Healthcare told NBC affiliate KPNX.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
