GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — An EMS agency released more details on a misconduct incident that occurred when a crew was sent to aid in Hurricane Florence relief, resulting in terminations and suspensions.
WCNC reported that Gaston County EMS released a list of violations that occurred when EMS providers were sent to Bladen County. Two of the EMS providers were terminated as a result of the incident, and multiple others were suspended.
The agency said their crew violated a standard department policy of “no alcohol within eight hours of work,” as well as the following:
- No alcoholic beverages may be carried in county vehicles at any time except where law enforcement agencies may be required to transport evidence in criminal investigations.
- Participating in an action which could, in any way, seriously disturb or disrupt the normal operation of any branch of county government, or impair the integrity or trust of County Government.
- Dishonesty: As far as state rules, the North Carolina Office of Emergency management has training handouts and rules for deployment teams. Gaston EMS says those disciplined violated the rule of “No alcohol will be transported or consumed,” which is listed in handouts and rules by NCOEMS for Ambulance Strike Team Deployment.
The agency added that not all of the 10 EMS providers sent to Bladen County were accused of misconduct, and at least one of the crew members acted as a whistleblower.