Nurse at Camden County Rehabilitation Facility Charged with Criminal Sexual Contact Surrenders License to Board of Nursing, Forbidden to Practice Pending Outcome of Criminal Case
NEWARK - Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino and the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs have announced that a nurse has voluntarily surrendered his license, to be deemed a temporary suspension, after his arrest on charges of criminal sexual contact, endangering the welfare of a child and sexual assault.
Kevin A. Cavallaro, a Registered Nurse, was arrested on February 2, 2017, by the Camden County Police Department and charged with four counts of criminal sexual contact, one count of sexual assault and four counts of endangering the welfare of children. These criminal charges arise out of alleged sexual contact with a resident at a rehabilitation facility in Camden County, where Cavallaro was a supervisory nurse. These charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
On March 3, 2017, Cavallaro signed an Interim Consent Order surrendering his license to the Board of Nursing. The suspension is considered temporary pending the conclusion of the criminal matter, after which the Board may take additional action.
"The relationship between nurses and their patients is one built on trust. When that trust is broken, the state must step in to make sure depraved behavior such as that alleged here does not occur again," said Attorney General Porrino. "We will not allow people in a position which requires compassion and the highest ethical behavior to take advantage of others."
"Ensuring patient safety and the integrity of the nursing profession are prime functions of the Board of Nursing," said Steve Lee, Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. "By moving quickly to keep this nurse from practicing while the criminal charges against him are dealt with in court, the Board sent a message that it will take all steps necessary to ensure the public is protected."
According to the consent order, the alleged contact of which Cavallaro is accused took place between October 1, 2016 and November 9, 2016. If proven, the alleged acts would be considered an offense of "moral turpitude" and are indicative of a lack of good moral character, which is a foundation for licensure under state statute. The offenses, if proven, would also be considered professional misconduct, grounds for further discipline by the Board of Nursing.
The Board is charged with regulating nursing in the State of New Jersey and making sure those who practice nursing are qualified and competent to do so.
Under the Interim Consent Order, Cavallaro must physically surrender his license to the Board. He cannot present himself as a nurse or practice nursing in New Jersey pending further review. The surrender of his license is not considered an admission of liability. The Board does reserve the right to impose further discipline, limitations and restrictions if Cavallaro seeks the reinstatement of his license.
###
