New York Doctor with 'Chloroform fetish' abused nanny, claims she was 'easiest target'

By Jared Feldschreiber
Paul Giacopelli
Paul Giacopelli is expected to serve four years in state prison with post-release supervision for up to ten years as part of his plea agreement. Putnam County Office of the District Attorney

A New York anesthesiologist with a self-described "chloroform fetish" admitted to sexually abusing a nanny he called his "easiest target," unveiling a disturbing breach of trust.

On Thursday, Putnam County District Attorney Robert V. Tendy announced that a Hudson Valley anesthesiologist admitted to sexually abusing a patient.

Paul Giacopelli, 60, a Southeast resident, pleaded guilty to first-degree sexual abuse and second-degree assault, both of which are classified as violent felony offenses, according to The Hudson Valley Post.

The defendant essentially confessed to the crimes during his interview, admitting that he has a "Chloroform fetish," and that the complainant was the "easiest target" because she is a "heavy sleeper," according to court records

Giacopelli was the chief anesthesiologist at Putnam County Hospital when he was arrested in March following a "painstaking investigation" by the Putnam County Sheriff's Office.

"Evidence showed that Giacopelli used a chemical that rendered his victim unconscious. He then sexually abused her," the District Attorney's Office stated in a press release.

Giacopelli is expected to serve four years in state prison with post-release supervision for up to ten years as part of his plea agreement.

Furthermore, he is required to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration Act.

While District Attorney Tendy revealed he's very proud of the Sheriff Department's work, he said he's "mostly proud of the victim's courage in going through the process" that ultimately led to his arrest and conviction.

"The victim's cooperation with the investigation and prosecution and her bravery and willingness to testify resulted in the defendant's guilty plea," officials added.

Giacopelli is due for sentencing later this year.

Tags
New York, Abuse

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