Crime & Safety
Former Evanston Hospital Physician Stole Medical Equipment: Prosecutor
The Chicago man is accused of stealing an ultrasound machine, compression pumps and an external defibrillator.
EVANSTON, IL - A former part-time physician at Evanston NorthShore Hospital has been charged with felony theft after prosecutors say he stole almost $200,000 worth of medical equipment from NorthShore hospitals in Evanston and Skokie.
Chicago resident Vinay Rawlani, 34, is accused of stealing an ultrasound machine, two ultrasound probes, compression pumps and an external defibrillator among other items between Jan. 23 and April 22, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Prosecutors say he admitted to “accidentally” storing the missing equipment at home while transporting it from the two hospitals.
A NorthShore spokesperson said a investigation was launched earlier this year when it was discovered that several pieces of medical equipment had been stolen.
"At no time was patient care or private health information ever compromised,” the statement read. “We have terminated his employment and are working with authorities to ensure he is prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
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