Doctor in Dallas Sentenced for Contaminating IV Bags Leading to Colleague’s Death

Dallas anesthesiologist Raynaldo Riviera Ortiz Jr. was sentenced to 190 years in prison for tampering with patient IV bags, resulting in the death of a colleague. Ortiz was convicted of multiple charges related to tampering with consumer products while working at a surgical facility in 2022. His actions led to cardiac complications for some patients, although none occurred during surgeries he performed. One patient died after using a tampered IV bag at home, while another had to be rushed to the ICU during surgery due to drug contamination. Prosecutors presented evidence, including surveillance footage, showing Ortiz mixing drugs into IV bags and replacing them before surgeries. Ortiz’s actions were described as an attempted murder by the judge. The case highlighted the dangers of medical professionals tampering with patient supplies and the severe consequences of such actions. Ortiz faced disciplinary actions prior to the incidents and was at risk of losing his medical license. The verdict of 190 years in prison was seen as justice for the nine patients affected by Ortiz’s reckless behavior. U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton condemned his actions, comparing him to an armed assailant injuring innocent individuals.

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