A former nurse anesthetist has been charged with multiple felony counts of sexual battery in Oklahoma after several women accused him of inappropriate conduct while working at a hospital.

Michael Ralls, 57, who previously worked as a nurse anesthetist at a hospital in Elk City, Oklahoma, is now facing serious criminal allegations following an investigation by local authorities. Court records show he has been charged with three felony counts of sexual battery.

According to investigators, the case began when a teenage intern reported receiving inappropriate messages from Ralls earlier this year. That initial complaint led hospital administrators and law enforcement to dig deeper into his conduct.

As the investigation unfolded, three female hospital employees reportedly came forward with separate allegations of misconduct. Authorities say each of the women worked under Ralls’ supervision or within his professional circle, raising concerns about workplace power dynamics and abuse of authority.
Hospital officials launched an internal investigation, which ultimately resulted in Ralls being terminated from his role.

Shortly after his dismissal, authorities say he relocated to Iowa, where he was later arrested in connection with the Oklahoma charges.

If convicted on all counts, Ralls could face decades behind bars.

The case has once again brought attention to the importance of workplace safety in healthcare settings, where trust and professionalism are expected at the highest level.

For nurses and healthcare workers, stories like this serve as a reminder that professional titles do not place anyone above accountability.

The nursing profession is built on compassion, ethics, and trust — and when those standards are violated, it impacts not only victims but the reputation of the wider profession.

As the case moves through the courts, all allegations remain subject to due legal process.