The Monroe County State Attorney’s Office announces that the grand jury has returned a 36-count indictment against Lynda J. Rusinowski

The Monroe County State Attorney’s Office announced today that the grand jury has returned a 36-count indictment against Lynda J. Rusinowski, the former Chief Fght Nurse for Monroe County Fire Rescue. The indictment includes ten counts of grand theft of controlled substances and twenty-six counts of official misconduct. Rusinowski is accused of illegally obtaining and using potent medical-grade narcotics, including Fentanyl, Dilaudid, Versed, Ketamine and Morphine, from Monroe County Fire Rescue. Additionally, she is alleged to have falsified official records to conceal these thefts, marking a serious breach of public trust.

The investigation began when Monroe County Fire Rescue reported discrepancies in their controlled substance logs. They discovered that approximately 16 prefilled Morphine syringes were missing. On June 24, 2022, an incident revealed a discrepancy in the Morphine inventory following a transfer to the Trauma Star controlled substance storage locker. Further investigation uncovered that there were many false entries made in the various controlled substance logs to cover up the thefts.

On July 25,2022, Rusinowski was confronted by members of Monroe County Fire Rescue with the discrepancies and admitted she was responsible and asked for help. Rusinowski was then driven to a detox center by MCFR Capt. Andrea Thompson in West Palm Beach, FL. On September 6, 2022, Rusinowski was arrested on charges related to the theft of the morphine syringes and falsification of the controlled substance logs.  This new indictment is related to the original investigation as well as additional evidence discovered that brought to light a significant abuse of her position and trust.

“The theft of highly potent medical-grade narcotics is a grave offense that endangers lives and undermines the integrity of our public institutions. This case represents a significant breach of public trust, and we are committed to ensuring justice is served,” said State Attorney Dennis Ward. The Monroe County State Attorney’s Office is prepared to present its case in court, ensuring that justice is pursued diligently.

If convicted, Rusinowski faces significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The Monroe County State Attorney’s Office remains dedicated to maintaining transparency and integrity within public institutions and will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact Steve Torrence Public Information Officer at the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office.