More fallout from the exploding investigation of at least eight Pawtucket firefighters, who are out of a job with the city in a developing controversy. Sources close to the investigation claim one firefighter was seen as the “drug kingpin” of the group. A criminal investigation is underway after the city found evidence of eight Pawtucket firefighters involved with being under the influence of drugs while on duty, and some also the selling of drugs while on duty. It is believed the kingpin had steady customers within the department and possibly outside the department. There is also speculation firefighters were stealing meds from people’s homes during calls and then selling the drugs. Of eight questioned, four resigned immediately, the other four were fired by the city. It is believed you could contact the fire station and find out what was for sale and how much. The following is a story from two years ago which certainly raised eyebrows, but we have no confirmation it is linked to the current probe. Were they high when this happened?

(WJAR) — Two Pawtucket EMTs had their licenses suspended by the Rhode Island Department of Health for failing to adhere to protocols.

Terrence O’Neil and Michael Garcia were suspended for their response to a call in January.

According to the consent order, the two failed to perform a primary assessment and get vital signs when responding to a man unresponsive in a snowbank.

The department of health says Garcia and O’Neill confirmed the patient’s jacket was never removed.

The consent order says they also failed to recognize the patient’s need to be taken to a hospital.

The department of health claims the EMTs falsified the patient care report and lied about their interaction with the patient.

O’Neill is suspended for 90 days and Garcia for 30 days.

They will have to complete refresher courses followed by a probation period for a year.

more details in this article below.

https://www.jems.com/patient-care/two-ri-fire-medics-suspended-after-mans-death/