ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - A former certified nursing assistant (CNA) was arrested after being accused of attempting to sexually assault his patient, according to an incident report from the Albany Police Department (APD).

APD identified the former nurse as Algernon Williams, a 36-year-old. The alleged incident occurred on Monday, Nov. 17 at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, the report says.

Williams allegedly came into the patient’s hospital room and began to choke the patient.

The patient was not identified, but APD reported that he is deaf and mute. The patient’s testimony was translated to APD officers.

According to the police report, the patient told officers that Williams came into his hospital room and began to choke him. He told APD that he tried to fight Williams off, but the choking affected his breathing and vision. According to the patient, Williams then pinned the patient’s head down and attempted to sexually assault him, but Williams was unsuccessful.

The patient told police that this occurred sometime between 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. on Nov. 17. It was reported to APD on Nov. 19, according to the incident report.

Following the allegation, Phoebe Putney said they launched an internal investigation into the incident, according to a spokesperson. They said Williams is no longer employed by the hospital.

“Phoebe recognizes the seriousness of the allegation made by a patient involving a former certified nursing assistant. The individual is no longer employed at Phoebe. We immediately launched an internal investigation and contacted authorities on behalf of the patient. We are fully cooperating with local law enforcement and providing all necessary information to support their investigation. Our first priority is the safety and well-being of our patients, and we hold every team member to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”

Officials say this case is active. WALB will provide updates as we learn more. Stay with us.

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Copyright 2025 WALB. All rights reserved.