An anesthesiologist from a New York hospital allegedly targeted his family’s nanny for abuse, but his plans backfired when the vigilant woman installed a surveillance camera and captured evidence of his actions, as reported by The Journal News.
Prosecutors in Putnam County commended the young woman for her courage and willingness to testify against Paul Giacopelli, 60, who pleaded guilty on Wednesday to charges of sexual abuse in the first degree and assault in the second degree.
The defendant previously held the position of chief anesthesiologist at Putnam County Hospital in the town of Carmel. Officials reported that he allegedly administered drugs to the woman and subjected her to mistreatment while she was unconscious on the sofa in his residence.
A nanny, concerned about potential mistreatment, discreetly placed a surveillance camera in the living room, cleverly hidden behind a dehumidifier near a turtle tank. According to the indictment, Giacopelli was accused of committing abuse on four separate occasions.
Sheriff’s Investigator Keith Simone testified in front of the grand jury that Giacopelli shared with him a peculiar interest in chloroform. During the trial, it was revealed that the defendant viewed the nanny as an easy target due to her deep sleeping habits. He confessed to touching her in several instances by placing a cloth, soaked with the anesthetic Sevuflorane, over her mouth and nose until she lost consciousness.
In a shocking revelation, he admitted to transporting drugs from the hospital to his residence. To make matters worse, a search warrant uncovered the presence of fentanyl and other substances.
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Based on online state records, the New York Department of Health has prohibited him from practicing medicine in the state “until either the final resolution of the matters under investigation or until such time as this order is modified or rescinded by the Director of the Office of Professional Medical Conduct.”
The woman has filed lawsuits against Giacopelli, Northwell Health Inc., Putnam County Hospital, and Montefiore Nyack Hospital, according to reports. The hospitals claim that Giacopelli’s actions were not within the scope of his job.
The sentencing date for the criminal case has been scheduled for November 12th. As part of the plea agreement, Giacopelli is anticipated to receive a four-year prison sentence, followed by up to 10 years of post-release supervision. Registration as a sex offender is required.
“I’m very proud of the work of the Sheriff’s Department and ADA Lynch,” Putnam County District Attorney Robert V. Tendy said, “but I’m mostly proud of the victim’s courage in going through this process which led to the defendant’s arrest and conviction.”
