A former nurse at the Oakdale Community Hospital was arrested Wednesday after he allegedly sexually assaulted two patients at the hospital.

John Richard, 57, of Sunset was arrested on charges of sexual battery, second-degree rape and malfeasance in office following an investigation into the incidents, according to Oakdale Police Chief Chad Doyle.

The charges allegedly stem from two separate incidences in which two male patients accused Richard of inappropriately touching them, Doyle said. The incidents reportedly occurred on June 22 and June 26.

It is not known how long Richard had been working at the hospital.

An arrest warrant was issued for Richard on June 26, but he was not arrested until Wednesday.

He was taken into custody by the Sunset Police Department and transported to the Oakdale Police Department where he was later transported to the Allen Parish Jail. No bond has been set.

The matter remains under investigation, Doyle said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lt. Kevin Johnson at 318-335-0290.