Joseph Riley Steves, a 37-year-old former nurse practitioner at Access Medical Clinic in Mountain Home, appeared in Baxter County Circuit Court’s Criminal Division on Monday for a status update on felony charges against him. Steves is accused of making unwanted physical contact with 24 patients during their visits to the clinic. His next court appearance is scheduled for December 7.
In early April, a probable cause affidavit named four initial victims who alleged inappropriate behavior during their examinations by Steves. The victims were identified only by number, age, and gender in the affidavit, which detailed their experiences. Prosecutor David Ethredge later stated that although additional allegations were made, the affidavit was not updated to outline the specifics of the cases involving the newer victims because the claims were similar.
Allegations raised by the original victims included claims of unnecessary physical contact and unprofessional behavior during medical examinations. One patient, seeking treatment for an allergic reaction requiring an injection, alleged that Steves pulled her pants down to her ankles against her wishes before administering the shot. Another patient reported that Steves massaged her calves during a visit for sinus infection symptoms and made her uncomfortable by recommending injections that she ultimately declined. A third patient visiting due to possible urinary tract infection symptoms reported that Steves made inappropriate comments.
Steves’ nursing licenses were surrendered on April 14, according to electronic records from the Arkansas State Nursing Board (ASNB). The disciplinary action stemmed from complaints of sexual misconduct. As part of his criminal case, Steves has pleaded not guilty to all allegations and is currently free on a $60,000 bond. He is represented by the James Law Firm of Little Rock.
In addition to the felony charges, Steves and Access Medical Clinic are facing six civil lawsuits filed by female patients. The suits, filed between May and September, allege inappropriate physical contact during medical visits. One woman from Missouri claims she went to the clinic in June 2022 for a strep test, only to have Steves insist on conducting a pelvic examination. She alleges that she allowed the examination based on his assurance that there would be no cost, but was ultimately billed hundreds of dollars.
Mountain Home Police Chief Eddie Griffin stated that while the investigation into the 24 cases is mostly complete, the file remains open should additional complaints arise. The department has shared its findings with the prosecuting attorney’s office.
The civil suits accuse Steves of performing medically unnecessary examination protocols. The legal proceedings against Steves continue to unfold as more alleged victims step forward with complaints.