HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – A doctor has been fired and is now facing a criminal charge after being accused of stealing the COVID-19 vaccine to give to his family and friends.
The Dallas Morning News reported Hasan Kassim Gokal, 48, is on trial on a charge of theft by a government official.
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According to the Harris County District Attorney, Gokal stole a vial containing nine doses of coronavirus vaccine while working at a vaccination site in December.
An investigation by Harris County Public Health officials, where Gokal worked, led to the doctor’s termination.
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“He abused his position to put his friends and family in line before people who went through the legal process of being there,” Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg said. “What he did was illegal and he will be held accountable by law.”
Gokal’s lawyer says his client only took the vial to make sure no doses go to waste.