Putnam County anesthesiologist Paul Giacopelli, 60, pleaded guilty on August 21 to sexually abusing his family’s nanny. Police arrested Giacopelli, who worked as the chief anesthesiologist at Putnam County Hospital, in December 2023 on suspicion of drugging the 25-year-old woman before sexually assaulting her. The nanny had suspected she may have been assaulted and installed a hidden camera in the living room where she slept. The footage confirmed her fears and led her to report the abuse to law enforcement.
Giacopelli reportedly used an anesthetic called Sevoflurane to incapacitate the woman. He admitted to investigators that he had a “chloroform fetish” and chose the nanny as his victim because she was a “heavy sleeper.” He allegedly brought the drugs home from the hospital where he worked, and investigators said they later found fentanyl and other controlled substances in his house as well.
Following his arrest late last year, the state Board for Professional Medical Conduct barred Giacopelli from practicing medicine. In August 2024, Giacopelli agreed to plead guilty to first-degree sexual abuse and second-degree assault in exchange for a four-year state prison sentence. He will also need to register as a sex offender and face post-release supervision.
The nanny has filed a lawsuit against Giacopelli, his wife, and the hospitals where he worked, accusing them of negligence. She claims that the hospitals’ lack of oversight allowed Giacopelli to access the drugs he used to assault her. The case has sparked significant public attention, raising concerns about the safety of vulnerable people and the responsibilities of medical institutions in preventing such crimes.
Survivors’ Rights in New York
This horrifying case highlights the importance of understanding the rights of sex crime survivors in New York. If you or someone you know experiences sexual assault, New York State provides protections and rights that you can exercise immediately.
First, you have the right to receive emergency medical care without discrimination, regardless of factors like race, gender, or immigration status. You can receive care at any hospital, and the costs can be covered by the Office of Victim Services if you lack insurance or choose not to use it.
You also have the right to decide whether or not to report the assault to the police. If you choose to report, your evidence will be tested promptly. If you decide not to report, the evidence will be securely stored for up to 20 years, so you have the option to release it later if you change your mind.
How a Sex Abuse Injury Lawyer Can Help
A sex abuse lawsuit attorney in New York can provide crucial support during this challenging time. It’s normal after experiencing something so horrific to feel overwhelmed and unsure of your options. A lawyer can educate you on the process of seeking accountability and compensation, from working with prosecutors to pursuing civil lawsuits against abusers and other responsible parties, such as employers or institutions.
Your lawyer can gather evidence on your behalf, interact with involved parties, and represent your interests in court. They can also pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. With the right representation, you can focus on recovery while your lawyer handles all the legal details.
Contact a New York Sex Abuse Attorney Now
At Hach & Rose, LLP, our sex abuse attorneys understand how difficult it can be to take the next step after experiencing sexual abuse. That’s why we offer a free, confidential consultation to review your rights and options. If you’ve been targeted for abuse by Paul Giacopelli or another medical provider in New York, contact us today, and let us provide the compassionate legal support you need to move forward.