Investigation Reveals Missing Drugs in San Jose Fire Department

San Jose, California – Serious allegations against the San Jose Fire Department (SJFD) have emerged, claiming the department was aware of missing or mishandled drugs since 2023 but failed to report the issues. A letter from the Santa Clara County EMS Agency has sparked outrage, as it detailed an ongoing failure to document incidents involving narcotics on fire rigs.

The allegations come after a letter shared with local media noted that each instance of drug mishandling must be reported, yet, according to the document, this was not done for nearly two years. Legal analyst Steven Clark highlighted the potential implications of these failures, stating, “If accusations hold true, it could cost someone their license to administer those drugs.”

San Jose Councilman Bien Doan, also a retired fire captain, expressed disbelief at the situation, saying, “This should never happen in the first place.” Doan attributed the problem to budget cuts that affected a unit designed to monitor the use of narcotics by medics. He urged city officials to reinstate the Med-30 unit in the upcoming budget, emphasizing the need for public safety.

In response to the county’s inquiries, Fire Chief Robert Sapien has faced criticism for what some describe as a lackluster response. The county provided a June 6 deadline for records regarding the missing drugs, to which Chief Sapien replied, “I will advise you when this information can be provided.” This reply has been described as “tepid” and “dismissive” by Clark.

The situation intensified after the recent arrest of SJFD Capt. Mark Moalem, who was charged with tampering with drugs at 17 fire stations. Capt. Jerry May, president of San Jose Firefighters Local 230, demanded accountability, stressing that firefighters are held to the highest standard and that the department administration must also be responsible.

The letter from County EMS detailed that such incidents not only violate agency policy but also pose a significant risk to public safety. According to experts, if investigations stall, federal agencies like the DEA might intervene, potentially leading to serious consequences for those involved.

Currently, all fire trucks and engines in San Jose store controlled substances in locked boxes, accessible only by firefighter-paramedics and battalion chiefs. However, questions loom over the effectiveness of these measures in the wake of recent developments.

As the investigation progresses, the fire union and city leaders are calling for immediate action and accountability. As of now, NBC Bay Area awaits further comments from Fire Chief Sapien and city officials.