Friday, July 3, 2009
** Those recklessly causing Delaware EMS LODDs could face death penalty
** Michigan man sentenced to jail for driving death of EMT
** New Brunswick medics left hanging on matter of ambulance advisory committee
UNITED STATES NEWS
** A person who recklessly causes the death of an on-duty EMS worker could now face first degree murder charges. That is the word from 1150AM WDEL (July 2) which said a new law to this effect recently passed the General Assembly. According to the news station, the statute would also make those convicted under its provisions eligible for the death penalty. Dubbed Michelle Smith’s Law after Delaware City fire paramedic Michelle Smith, who was killed at a motorcycle accident scene last December 22, the legislation additionally pertains to fire marshals and fire police.
** One year in jail was the tag given a Michigan man Wednesday, after he pleaded no contest to striking and killing an EMT attending an accident scene. 9and10News (July 2) said Charles Bacon, 47, was handed the sentence in relation to the January 26, 2008 death of Brooklyn resident Cheryl Kiefer. Kiefer was attending to a stranded motorist when the crash occurred. Snowy weather conditions were present at the time.
CANADA NEWS
** A cabinet shuffle in New Brunswick has left EMS workers baffled as to whether or not a proposed ambulance advisory committee will still come off. The Daily Gleaner (Adam Bowie/July 2) said the group, proposed by then Health Minister Mike Murphy, was intended to make suggestions on how provincial EMS should be run. Murphy has since taken up duties as Justice Minister while his replacement, Mary Schryer, remains mum on the topic. Paramedics Association of New Brunswick executive director Chris Hood said he is optimistic the committee might proceed. Hood said PANB could provide valuable insight for politicians on how prehospital care functions in the province. CUPE Local 4848 spokesman Ralph McBride concurred, noting such an approach might help restore public confidence in the health care system.
