PALM BAY, Fla. — The city of Palm Bay fired a Fire Rescue lieutenant after an internal investigation found he falsified clinical documentation connected to a paramedic program.
Lt. Kevin Plunkett’s employment was terminated effective Aug. 28, according to a signed disciplinary memorandum obtained by Channel 9.
The investigation began after Plunkett was dismissed from the city-sponsored Eastern Florida State College Paramedic Program.
According to the memorandum, investigators identified several issues involving Plunkett’s clinical records, including:
- Falsified or inaccurate clinical documentation.
- Clinical hours that might not have been completed as reported.
- Logs containing preceptor signatures that those individuals said were not theirs.
- Patient contacts from incidents in which Plunkett might not have participated.
- Access to patient-care information from incidents in which he was not a responding crew member or involved in the patient’s care.
- False or misleading information provided to Eastern Florida State College about completing the program.
Following an Aug. 25 pre-disciplinary hearing, the city determined that Plunkett had falsified clinical documentation and inaccurately reported clinical hours and patient contacts.
The city sustained two dismissible offenses, including conduct that raised questions about Plunkett’s ability to maintain public trust.
Palm Bay said Plunkett had an opportunity during the hearing to provide contrary evidence, an explanation or mitigating information. His signature on the memorandum acknowledged that he received and read it, not necessarily that he agreed with its findings.
The decision may be challenged through the grievance process outlined in the firefighters union contract.
“The City of Palm Bay has terminated the employment of a Palm Bay Fire Rescue lieutenant following the conclusion of an internal investigation and subsequent administrative review,” Fire Chief Richard Stover said in a statement.
“The City expects all employees to meet the standards of conduct established for public service, and personnel actions are taken when those standards are not met,” Stover said.
The city said it would not provide additional details because the matter involved a former employee.
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