By-Line: Joseph Bober, FCSO
Following an investigation by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office General Assignment Unit and the State Attorney’s Office for the Seventh Circuit, additional charges have been filed against James Melady, a former Flagler County Fire Rescue employee who was arrested in September 2024 for sexually battering an unconscious victim in an ambulance. During the investigation, detectives determined that he had defrauded multiple victims by stealing their credit cards and identification while performing his official duties as a paramedic.
Detective John Castanheira led the investigation, which found that Melady stole debit cards and personal identification information from victims who suffered medical emergencies and used them to make fraudulent purchases. In total, three victims were identified during the investigation.
In one instance, FCFR was dispatched to an emergency in which a 92-year-old victim had fallen and required transportation to the hospital. During the incident, the victim’s purse was given to Melady to bring to the hospital. Before returning the purse to the victim at the hospital, Melady stole the victim’s debit card. Several days later, Melady used the debit card without the victim’s knowledge to make two purchases at Sam’s Club in Daytona Beach, Florida, totaling $715.38.
Following the investigation, detectives obtained an arrest warrant. Melady, who was already being held in the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility from his September 2024 arrest, was rearrested for Fraudulent Use of Personal Identification without Consent of a Victim 60 Years of Age or Older and Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Credit Card. He is being held without bond due to his prior arrest.
“After a thorough investigation by our General Assignment Unit and our partners at the State Attorney’s Office, it turns out that not only is this person a predator and a pervert, but he’s also a thief,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “He continually violated his oath and used his position as a first responder to take advantage of victims. He’s in the Green Roof Inn, and he’ll stay there until he goes to state prison, where he belongs.”
The investigation is still ongoing. Anyone who was transported in an FCFR ambulance and then noticed unusual purchases on their credit card bills or debit bank account is encouraged to contact the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office by calling 386-313-4911 or emailing TIPS@flaglersheriff.com.
Flagler County Administration also stated on the subject. “Flagler County has been made aware of the criminal charges filed against a former employee who previously served as a Firefighter/Paramedic with our organization. These charges, which involve allegations of fraudulent use of a credit card belonging to an elderly patient under their care, stem from an incident that occurred while the individual was employed with us. We take these allegations seriously and are cooperating fully with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office as they conduct their investigation. Our organization is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct and public trust. The actions of any one individual do not reflect the integrity and dedication of the hardworking members of our team who serve our community with professionalism and compassion every day. As this is an ongoing legal matter, we are unable to provide further details at this time. Any inquiries regarding the investigation should be directed to the Flagler Sheriff’s Office.”
