A Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue lieutenant has been arrested and charged after allegedly assaulting a 65-year-old patient inside a rescue vehicle during a medical response in central Broward, authorities said.
Carlos Antonio Lewin, 43, was taken into custody Thursday by the Broward Sheriff’s Office on two counts of battery on a person age 65 or older, according to jail records.
Officials said the incident occurred on Jan. 31 when fire rescue personnel responded to a medical call near Northwest 1st Street and Northwest 31st Avenue in unincorporated Broward County.
Allegations inside rescue vehicle
Investigators say the patient, identified as 65-year-old Alan MacPhee, was placed on a stretcher after being found in a wheelchair. While being evaluated, Lewin allegedly became involved in a verbal dispute with him.
Authorities allege Lewin then directed other firefighters to move the patient into a rescue vehicle where no cameras were present. Inside the vehicle, while vital signs were being checked, Lewin allegedly grabbed the patient’s head and struck it against the stretcher repeatedly for about 30 seconds.
An arrest affidavit further states that Lewin allegedly pressed his fingers into the patient’s eyes and later choked him, causing the man to struggle for air.
MacPhee told NBC6 he believes he was targeted due to a misunderstanding, saying a prior stroke left him with a speech impediment.
“He thought I was a homeless drunk,” MacPhee said.
“He could have pushed my eyeballs into my damn head,” he added.
Medical treatment and investigation
MacPhee later complained of head, neck and eye pain and was taken to HCA Florida Broward Health Medical Center for evaluation.
The other firefighters on scene reportedly reported the incident, prompting an internal investigation and a warrant for Lewin’s arrest. He was later arrested at the Public Safety Building.
Court appearance and bond
During a bond hearing Friday, Judge Corey Friedman described the allegations in strong terms, noting claims that Lewin “slammed this person’s head, choked them, and then tried to gouge their eyes out.”
The judge set bond at $50,000, ordered Lewin to have no contact with the victim, and prohibited him from possessing firearms or weapons.
“I’ve got certainly community safety concerns,” Friedman said, while stressing that guilt would ultimately be determined in court.
Department response
Lewin, who joined the department in 2015, has been suspended without pay.
Gregory Tony, Broward Sheriff, said the case reflects accountability within the agency.
“The arrest of our fire lieutenant demonstrates our commitment to holding our own accountable for their unlawful actions,” Tony said. “I applaud the two firefighters who reported this incident.”
Authorities say Lewin remains out on bond as the case proceeds.
