The Peru Gazette

Former employee arrested; work continues to provide care in a safe environment

PLATTSBURGH, NY (02/13/2024) — The following is a statement from the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) President Michelle LeBeau about today’s arrest of a former employee:

“This morning, Plattsburgh City Police Department and the New York State Police took into custody a former CVPH employee who was driving to our main campus with several guns in his possession. We believe that his intention was to use those guns here.

“Complicating this situation was a phone system failure (since resolved) which made notification by law enforcement difficult. We learned of the threat at 0900 as the arrest was being made which led to the decision not to lock down our facility.

“In many ways, we have been sheltered from the harsh realities of today’s troubled world. Today, that reality was made clear in a truly frightening way. I am grateful for the family member that informed law enforcement of this person’s intentions. As well as for the partnership of several county and state law enforcement agencies that came together seamlessly to protect us and those we care for.  I am forever grateful for this team of healthcare professionals who give so much to our community.

“The events of today highlight the complexities of providing health care in a safe environment. While there are no easy fixes, we will continue to plan, educate and implement change to support each other in this new reality.”