Head of psychiatric department in Odesa detained for extortion

Police in Odesa detained the head of a psychiatric department of a hospital on suspicion of extortion for inpatient treatment.

This was reported by the press service of the Main Directorate of the National Police in Odesa Oblast.

According to the investigation, a man complained of a deteriorating health condition to the psychiatrist. After an initial examination, he was hospitalized. However, instead of providing free medical care as provided by law, the doctor demanded payment for treatment.

In particular, she told the patient and his attendant that in order to continue his hospital stay for one month, he had to pay $500. In total, she planned to receive $1,500 for three months of treatment. In case of refusal to transfer the money, the woman threatened to discharge the patient from the hospital as soon as possible.

The police detained the woman immediately after receiving the agreed amount of money. Investigators notified the doctor that she was suspected of taking a bribe. If proven guilty, the woman faces imprisonment for a term of five to ten years with disqualification to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities for up to three years, with confiscation of property.

Кирило Бойко