‘I don’t know why I did it:’ Woman accused of molesting autistic patient at UF Health Jacksonville

DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — A Jacksonville hospital employee is facing charges after being accused of molesting an autistic patient.

Police were called out to UF Health Jacksonville on Sept. 21 for a report of lewd molestation, that was seen during the act on a live security feed.

According to a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office arrest report, hospital employees monitor live video of patients’ rooms who are considered high risk of falling.

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The monitor tech that day said she witnessed Tamiah Deligar, 31, the hospital’s dietary associate, making rounds and delivering food to patients, and noticed Deligar lingering in a patient’s room, which she found odd.

When she zoomed in on the live video feed, she told JSO that Deligar was performing sexual acts on the autistic patient.

“The witness was so shocked and startled that she got onto the room’s intercom and yelled ‘no, ma’am,’” startling Deligar, the report stated.

The patient, who is unable to speak, confirmed the woman’s actions on him “through a series of yes and no questions and pointing to body parts,” his only way of communication, JSO said.

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Deligar’s supervisor said she received a text message from the suspect, apologizing for the embarrassment her actions may cause the department.

“I do not have an excuse for my actions. I don’t know why I did it myself and that’s what’s frustrating me right now. But I am no way a victim and I’ll take on the consequences for my bad choice,” the text read.

Deligar was arrested Sept. 22 and faces two lewd molestation charges. As of Monday morning, Deligar remains in jail on a $100,006 bond.

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