Officer Dies Following Cosmetic Surgery Abroad,Family Calls for Probe

​SANTO DOMINGO — Grief has engulfed a Bronx precinct and a grieving New York family following the sudden death of Rebecca De Paula, a 31-year-old NYPD officer and mother of three, who died after undergoing cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic.

​De Paula, recently recognized as Officer of the Month at her Bronx precinct in March for her dedication to community policing, traveled to Santo Domingo for a breast implant removal procedure. Relatives report that she developed a severe bacterial infection following the operation at a local clinic.

​Her condition deteriorated rapidly, culminating in her death over the weekend. Her mother rushed to the medical center upon learning of her critical condition, only to arrive and discover she had already passed away.

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​Colleagues and loved ones remember De Paula not only as a dedicated law enforcement professional with less than two years on the force, but also as a deeply spiritual person who served as a pastor alongside her husband. Tributes have poured in across social media from trainers and fellow officers who praised her character, warmth, and bright future in the department.

​In the wake of the tragedy, De Paula’s family is demanding a full-scale malpractice investigation into the clinic, questioning whether medical negligence contributed to her sudden decline and death. Her remains are currently being held at the National Institute of Forensic Sciences in Santo Domingo and will soon be transported back to the United States for final burial.

​The Police Benevolent Association has expressed deep sorrow over the loss, urging the public to keep De Paula’s young children, husband, and colleagues in their thoughts during this difficult time.

​Noticias Sin coverage of the incident

​This news broadcast provides local reporting and further context on the tragic passing of the NYPD officer in the Dominican Republic.