Hudson Valley EMS official accused of sexual assault
Jeff Ashdown, 33, was charged on Feb. 5 with forcible touching and harassment, both misdemeanors, according to the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office.
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An emergency medical service official in two Hudson Valley communities is accused of sexually assaulting a co-worker on duty.
Jeff Ashdown, 33, was charged on Feb. 5 with forcible touching and harassment, both misdemeanors, according to the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office.
Ashdown is a member of the Mamakating First Aid Squad where a source tells News 12 he was arrested.
He’s also the president of the Ulster County EMS Council and is the assistant chief for the Wallkill Ambulance Corps in Ulster County.
News 12 reached out the EMS groups Ashdown is affiliated with. The ambulance corps in Mamakating said he’s been suspended.
Ulster County EMS Council Vice President Stephen Sawyer says, “Due to this arrest not occurring in Ulster County and not in relation to the Ulster County EMS Council, there will be no comment on the matter.”
Ashdown’s attorney Glenn Kroll tells News 12 that he’s being set up by a disgruntled colleague who’s allegedly retaliating against him while facing workplace disciplinary charges and possible employment termination. Kroll says the incident allegedly occurred on-duty 15-months ago and describes the relationship between Ashdown and the woman as a “close friendship.”
People in Mamakating say they’re shocked to hear about the allegations in a small town.
“I don’t like hearing that. Especially EMS. Can you imagine? Not a good thing,” says Chris Looram.
The Sullivian County Sheriff’s Office arrested Ashdown. News 12 has been unable to reach them for additional information.
“It’s definitely alarming,” says Brianna Partridge. “Especially around here.”
