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Denver paramedic accused of fentanyl theft

Christopher Pattinson is said to have stolen from Denver Health over three years

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By Leila Merrill

DENVER — A grand jury indicted a paramedic, who is accused of stealing 50 vials of fentanyl from his former workplace and tampering with another 20 over the last four years, KDVR reported Monday.

Christopher Pattinson, 40, faces 20 counts of tampering with a consumer product plus 38 counts of obtaining a controlled substance by deception.

The thefts happened between Nov. 5, 2018, and Jan. 12, 2022, at Denver Health, according to the indictment.

“In January 2022, Denver Health became aware of a possible drug theft involving a Denver Health paramedic. We immediately notified the proper authorities and conducted an internal investigation. At the conclusion of our investigation, the paramedic was terminated,” a statement from Denver Health said.

Denver Health told CBS News that it has since enhanced its drug protocols.


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