Florida EMT faces allegations of forgery and grand theft

On Behalf of | Aug 9, 2017 | White Collar Crimes

Overwhelming financial obligations can sometimes cause people in Florida to do things that they would not normally do. White collar crimes may bring short term relief but can have devastating long-term consequences. Those who are charged with crimes like fraud, forgery and embezzlement may realize the gravity of the situation and seek legal counsel.

An EMT in Polk County is currently facing criminal charges that followed allegations of forgery. According to court documents, a 28-year-old woman who was employed as a fire rescue emergency medical technician submitted a certificate to prove she completed a physical abilities test at the Broward Fire Academy. Such a qualification would have earned her a position as a firefighter along with an annual salary increase totaling $11,123.

However, her supervisor alleged he noticed irregularities on the certificate and contacted the Academy to confirm the validity. The Academy reportedly could not find proof of training provided to anybody by that name and suggested one of its documents was used in a forgery. The employee was subsequently arrested. The Sheriff announced the EMT’s arrest saying her conduct was as much a public safety concern as it was an integrity issue.

This EMT is now facing charges of grand theft and forgery. However, these are only allegations, and she will be innocent in the eyes of the law until — and if — the prosecution can prove her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Any Florida resident who is facing criminal charges is free to retain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney to protect his or her rights and work to achieve the best possible outcome.

Source: Lakeland, FL Patch, “Polk County EMT Forged Promotion Paperwork: Sheriff“, Sherri Lonon, Aug. 1, 2017

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