FDNY EMT arrested for stealing from patient

NEW YORK

The integrity test was prompted by a theft allegation.

35-year-old Donald Vasquez of Brooklyn has been charged with two counts each of official misconduct, petit larceny, and possession of stolen property in the fifth degree. He faces a year in jail for each of the charges if convicted.

"Stealing money from an individual in a vulnerable situation is a fundamental breach of an EMT's duty. The conduct outlined in these charges is antithetical to the diligence and care shown by the many EMTS who help injured people every day in this City," DOI Commissioner Rose Gill Hearn said.

As a result of the arrest, Vasquez has been suspended and faces disciplinary action.

According to the criminal complaint, Vasquez responded to an emergency call in a Brooklyn apartment and was directed into a bedroom to retrieve identification for the patient who was actually an undercover investigator.

Video surveillance showed the defendant stealing money from a wallet in the bedroom and the surveillance video also showed Vasquez later took additional cash from an envelope in the apartment.

The money was recovered from Vasquez.

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