by Baltimore County, MD – A former nurse at Sheppard Pratt psychiatric hospital is facing serious criminal charges after allegedly raping a patient under his care. Michael Cabanalan, 35, has been charged with second-degree rape and other sexual offenses involving a 17-year-old patient with intellectual disabilities, raising profound concerns about safety and oversight at the facility.
The disturbing allegations came to light after hospital staff noted suspicious behavior, surveillance footage, and subsequent investigations by Baltimore County police. This case has sparked significant attention on patient protection in psychiatric settings.
The Allegations and Investigation
According to charging documents and police reports, Cabanalan met the minor patient at Sheppard Pratt on September 4, 2025. He repeatedly entered the patient’s room, which was not monitored by cameras, approximately eight times in one evening.
During these visits, he allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with the patient who, due to her intellectual disabilities, was deemed unable to give consent.
After the victim was discharged on September 8, Cabanalan reportedly picked her up from her home in Silver Spring and transported her to his residence in Towson, where further assaults allegedly occurred twice. The victim eventually disclosed the assault to her mother after being tracked leaving the home on a family app, prompting immediate involvement of child protective services (CPS) and law enforcement.
Hospital and Police Response
Sheppard Pratt promptly suspended then terminated Cabanalan following the accusations. In a statement, the hospital emphasized:
“The safety and well-being of those in our care is always our first priority and one that we take very seriously. When we were made aware of allegations against a former employee, we immediately reported it to law enforcement and appropriate agencies.”
The hospital also detailed ongoing collaboration with authorities to ensure a safe and therapeutic environment, continuously reviewing policies and safeguards to protect patients.
Baltimore County Police issued a warrant for Cabanalan on October 15, and he was arrested on October 21. The case remains under active investigation.
Broader Concerns Over Psychiatric Patient Safety
This incident raises broader questions about patient safety protocols in psychiatric facilities, especially concerning vulnerable populations such as minors with disabilities. Experts and advocates stress the importance of stringent oversight, enhanced staff training, and transparent reporting mechanisms.
- Key facts: Cabanalan was a nurse at Sheppard Pratt, a well-known psychiatric hospital in Baltimore County.
- The victim was a 17-year-old patient with intellectual disabilities, unable to consent.
- The hospital took immediate action once allegations were disclosed and cooperated fully with law enforcement.
- This incident highlights the vulnerability of psychiatric patients and the essential need for safeguarding measures.
For further information, see the original report on CBS Baltimore.
What Happens Next?
Michael Cabanalan faces serious legal consequences as the investigation progresses. The hospital has reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety, and authorities are working to ensure justice is served.
What do you think about this case and the steps taken by Sheppard Pratt? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
