Former Putnam Hospital Anesthesiologist Pleads Guilty

CARMEL, N.Y. - The former chief anesthesiologist at Putnam County Hospital in Carmel has pleaded guilty to two violent felony charges and will be sentenced to four years in prison.

Putnam County District Attorney Robert Tendy announced this week that Paul Giacopelli, a Southeast resident, pleaded guilty to first-degree sexual abuse and second-degree assault.

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After an investigation by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, working with the victim and the District Attorney’s Office, Giacopelli was arrested and ultimately confessed. At the time of his arrest, Giacopelli was the chief anesthesiologist at Putnam County Hospital. Evidence showed that Giacopelli used a chemical that rendered his victim unconscious. He then sexually abused her.

Tendy said Giacopelli will be sentenced to four years in state prison with post-release supervision for up to 10 years. He must register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration Act.

According to the DA’s office, the victim’s cooperation with the investigation and prosecution, and her bravery and willingness to testify resulted in the defendant’s guilty plea.

“I’m very proud of the work of the Sheriff’s Department and ADA Melissa Lynch; but I’m mostly proud of the victim’s courage in going through this process which led to the defendant’s arrest and conviction,” Tendy said.

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The case was investigated by Investigator Keith Simone and other members of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by ADA Lynch.

Giacopelli is scheduled to be sentenced by County Court Judge Anthony Molé on Nov. 20.

Article courtesy of Putnam County DA’s Office

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