New York City, New York — The family of a 31-year-old New York Police Department officer is demanding answers after she died following cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic.
Rebecca De Paula, a mother of three who had recently been honored for her service in the Bronx, reportedly developed a severe bacterial infection after undergoing breast implant removal surgery, prompting relatives to call for a medical malpractice investigation.
Family Seeks Investigation Into Officer’s Death
According to De Paula’s family, the NYPD officer underwent the cosmetic procedure at a clinic in Santo Domingo before suffering serious complications.
Relatives said she developed a bacterial infection after the surgery and was hospitalized as her condition rapidly worsened.
Her mother told local media she rushed to the medical facility after learning her daughter was critically ill, only to discover that Rebecca had already died before she arrived.
Authorities have not publicly determined the exact cause of death, and the family’s request for an investigation does not mean medical negligence has been established.
The family is asking Dominican authorities to examine whether medical malpractice or negligence contributed to the fatal outcome.
Young Officer Had Recently Been Honored by NYPD
De Paula had served with the New York Police Department for less than two years before her death.
In March, she was recognized as Officer of the Month by the 46th Precinct in the Bronx, which praised her “outstanding police work and dedication to the community.”
Following news of her passing, Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry expressed condolences on behalf of fellow officers.
He said the department’s “hearts are heavy” following the loss of their colleague and asked New Yorkers to keep her family, friends, and coworkers in their prayers.
Remembered as a Dedicated Mother and Pastor
Beyond her law enforcement career, De Paula was known by family and friends as a devoted mother of three and someone deeply involved in her faith.
Relatives said she also served as a pastor alongside her husband, dedicating much of her personal life to helping others. Retired NYPD instructor David Marmol, who helped train De Paula, shared an emotional tribute on social media.
He described her as “such a beautiful soul” and recalled that she often greeted people by saying “God bless you” instead of hello.
Friends and colleagues said she had a promising future both within the police department and her community.
Body to Be Returned to the United States
According to reports, De Paula’s remains are being held at the National Institute of Forensic Sciences in the Dominican Republic while arrangements are made to return her to the United States for burial.
Her family continues to seek answers about the events leading up to her death as officials review the circumstances surrounding the surgery.
No findings of wrongdoing have been announced, and authorities have not indicated whether any healthcare providers have been accused of misconduct.
Cosmetic Surgery Risks and Previous Cases
Medical experts note that breast implant removal surgery, while commonly performed, carries potential risks including infection, blood clots, fluid buildup, hematoma, and heart or lung complications.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 93 cosmetic surgery-related deaths involving U.S. citizens were reported in the Dominican Republic between 2009 and 2022.
The tragedy also follows another high-profile case involving an NYPD officer. In October 2025, Detective Alicia Stone died after undergoing cosmetic procedures in Colombia, drawing renewed attention to the risks associated with medical tourism.
Investigators have not yet concluded whether Rebecca De Paula’s death resulted from unavoidable surgical complications or possible medical negligence.
What are your thoughts on traveling abroad for cosmetic surgery? Do you think stronger safeguards are needed for patients seeking medical procedures overseas? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
