ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — A Rochester police officer is on paid suspension following an incident Monday involving an employee of Monroe Ambulance at Strong Memorial Hospital.
On July 11, it’s alleged the Monroe Ambulance employee bumped their door against the officer’s patrol car. The officer then detained the employeewhile she was tending to a patient.
On Thursday, police chief David Smith was made aware of the situation and then conducted an internal investigation. Monroe Ambulance said the employee sought medical attention for minor injuries after the incident.
On Monday, the organization Save Rochester said the ambulance employee — whom they identified as EMT Lekia Smith — secured a lawyer and wants the RPD officer fired.
Attorney Elliot Shield confirmed that Smith intends to file a notice of claim, intending to sue the City of Rochester and the officer involved. Additionally, Smith has filed a complaint with the Police Accountability Board, Shield said.
Monroe Ambulance said the safety of their crew and their patients are of the utmost importance. They felt video footage of the incident shows the safety of both the employee and the patient jeopardized by the actions of the officer — and their employee showed sound decision-making by prioritizing the care of her patient. They also said the actions of the officer do not represent the values of the RPD.
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