Nurse Tyler Butcher Arrested in Alleged Sexual Assault of Patient at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital

Murfreesboro, Tennessee — A 25-year-old nurse, identified as Tyler Butcher, has been arrested and charged in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a patient at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, according to the Murfreesboro Police Department (MPD).

MPD detectives took Butcher into custody at his residence shortly after 9:00 p.m. on December 5, following reports of a disturbing incident that occurred inside the hospital. Butcher was employed at Saint Thomas Rutherford at the time of the alleged assault, police said.

Multiple Felony Charges Filed

According to investigators, Butcher faces several serious charges, including:

• Kidnapping

• Sexual battery

• Prevention of emergency services

• Indecent exposure

He was booked into the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center and is being held on a $14,000 bond. A court date has been set for February 5, 2026, in Rutherford County General Sessions Court.

Hospital Response and Investigation Status

Hospital officials have not yet issued a public statement addressing the allegations, nor have they confirmed Butcher’s current employment status or whether disciplinary actions have been taken.

Police say the investigation remains active as detectives continue interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and reviewing hospital security protocols related to the incident.

MPD is urging anyone with relevant information to come forward as the case progresses.