Port St. Lucie residents were informed that a 54‑year‑old nurse at Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital, identified as Leslie Pope, is under investigation for allegedly stealing fentanyl from an intensive‑care patient’s intravenous bag. According to the Port St. Lucie Police Department, a family member of the patient observed Pope using a syringe to withdraw fluid from the patient’s fentanyl infusion and placing the syringe in her pocket before leaving the room.
Officer Brittany McNally, the department’s public information officer, said Pope was not assigned to the patient and had no justification for being in the ICU room at the time. “That’s not standard procedure, from what I understand at the hospital,” McNally noted.
The alleged incident occurred on June 24, and a second alleged attempt took place the following evening. The family member intervened during the second encounter, preventing any further removal of medication. Hospital video reportedly captured Pope manipulating the protective caps on the IV equipment, though investigators said no fluid was removed during the second incident.
Police indicated that an internal hospital investigation prompted a notification to the Florida Department of Health, which in turn alerted the Port St. Lucie Police Department. The department began its own investigation in early August. Pope has denied the allegations and has not admitted to using the fentanyl for personal consumption. However, McNally stated that “an overwhelming amount of evidence” supports the charges.
Cleveland Clinic Tradition Hospital released a statement confirming that the nurse is no longer employed by the facility and that the organization is fully cooperating with law‑enforcement authorities. The hospital added that, because the investigation remains active, it cannot provide further comment at this time.
Authorities have not disclosed whether formal criminal charges have been filed, but the ongoing investigation suggests that legal action may follow. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant about hospital safety protocols and to report any suspicious activity.
What’s next: The Port St. Lucie Police Department will continue its investigation, and any potential charges will be announced as the case progresses. The hospital is reviewing its security and monitoring procedures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Sources: wpbf.com
