DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — A local children's hospital nurse is accused of having sexual contact with an underage teen.
Wolfson Children’s Hospital told Action News that Seth Branch, 35, has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation.
Branch is accused of engaging in sexual activity with a 16- or 17-year-old for more than a year.
The police report said the alleged sexual contact happened in Branch’s home.
"I would have never expected it out of him,” neighbor Jack Klerich said.
Klerich said he often saw young teens spending time at Branch’s home.
"He always had a lot of activity over his house, a lot of younger kids, seemed like,” Klerich said.
The arrest report by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the alleged victim called Branch at the police station and confronted him about the sexual activity on the phone.
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Police said in that phone call, Branch told the teen he was sorry and it would never happen again, saying, “I screwed up.”
In a statement, Wolfson Children’s Hospital said: “As a leader in children’s health care, Wolfson Children’s Hospital is absolutely committed to the health and safety of our patients and their families. That is why every one of our staff must undergo a thorough background and reference check before employment. We are taking the allegation very seriously and we are cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation. Mr. Branch is currently on suspension pending the outcome of the investigation.”
Action News Jax tried talking to Branch but there was no answer at his door and he has not returned phone calls.
"It's grim, you know, raising my own kids, got grandchildren and great-grandchildren,” Klerich said. “I'm flabbergasted."
Branch has been a registered nurse since 2006.
According to the Florida Department of Health, Branch does not have any complaints against his medical license.
WJAX
