NYPD officer dies in Dominican Republic after breast surgery

A 31-year-old New York City police officer died in the Dominican Republic after developing a bacterial infection following breast implant removal surgery, prompting an investigation and highlighting the risks of medical tourism. Rebecca De Paula, a mother of three and a pastor, died on Sunday, August 2, 2026, after undergoing the elective procedure at a private clinic in Santo Domingo.

De Paula, who had served with the NYPD for less than two years and was assigned to the 46th Precinct in the Bronx, was recognized as Officer of the Month in March 2026 for her community work. She was off duty at the time of her death. Her family told Dominican media that she traveled to Santo Domingo about a week before her death for what was described as a routine surgery to remove the implants. In the days following the operation, her condition worsened as she developed a serious bacterial infection, which relatives said led to gastrointestinal symptoms and other complications. She died at the health center despite receiving treatment.

Diego Pesqueira, a spokesperson for the Dominican National Police, confirmed that investigators from the force and the Public Ministry are awaiting the results of...