PALM BAY, Fla. — The city of Palm Bay fired a fire department lieutenant after an internal investigation found he falsified clinical documentation related to a paramedic training program.
Lieutenant Kevin Plunkett was terminated effective Aug. 28, according to a disciplinary memorandum obtained by WFTV.
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The investigation began after Plunkett was dismissed from the city-sponsored Eastern Florida State College Paramedic Program.
According to the disciplinary memorandum, investigators found multiple problems with Plunkett’s clinical records, including allegedly falsified or inaccurate documentation, questionable clinical hours and preceptor signatures that individuals said were not theirs.
Investigators also cited patient contacts from calls Plunkett may not have participated in, access to patient care information when he was not involved in the response, and false or misleading information provided to Eastern Florida State College about completing the paramedic program.
Following a pre-disciplinary hearing, the city determined that Plunkett falsified clinical documentation and inaccurately reported clinical hours and patient contacts.
Officials sustained two offenses that warranted dismissal, including conduct that raised concerns about his ability to maintain public trust. The city said Plunkett was allowed to provide evidence or information in his defense before his termination.
The decision can be challenged through the grievance process outlined in the firefighters’ union contract.
