Charlotte, N.C. – (Thursday, March 9, 2023) – Detectives with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's Sexual Assault Unit have arrested and charged Akingbiwaju Joseph Opadele (DOB 03/08/1992) with felony Sexual Contact Under Pretext of Medical Treatment.
On January 17, 2023, the 17-year-old female victim was transported by Fort Mill Emergency Medical Services from Fort Mill to Atrium Health Main (1000 Blythe Boulevard) after she experienced a medical episode. Upon arrival at Atrium Main, the victim reported to hospital staff that she was sexually assaulted by Mr. Opadele while in the back of the ambulance during the drive to the hospital. Mr. Opadele was the only person in the back of the ambulance at the time. He was employed as a paramedic with Fort Mill EMS.
The victim was treated at the hospital for her medical episode and also received a sex assault kit and examination. Following laboratory analysis of the sexual assault kit and examination of physical evidence and victim and witness testimony, detectives determined there was probable cause to charge Mr. Opadele. A warrant was issued and on March 7, 2023, the suspect was arrested at this home with the assistance of the Kannapolis Police Department and the CMPD's Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT). Following an attempted interview by detectives, Mr. Opadele was transported to the Mecklenburg County Detention Center. He was released the same day (March 7) on a $15,000 unsecured bond.
This investigation into this case is active and ongoing. If anyone has information about this case or other potential cases linked to the suspect, please call Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or http://charlottecrimestoppers.com/. For additional information about this case, please refer to the report: 20230117-1659-00.
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