By New York Post (U.S.) | Created at 2026-08-03 23:11:09 | Updated at 2026-08-04 00:32:16
1 hour ago
An NYPD cop died after suffering complications from breast implant removal surgery in the Dominican Republic — and now the mom of three’s family is demanding a malpractice investigation, according to reports and authorities.
Rebecca De Paula, 31, who was named officer of the month in March at her Bronx precinct, contracted a bacterial infection after the cosmetic surgery at a clinic in Santo Domingo, relatives told local outlet Noticias Sin.
She died early Sunday after less than two years on the force.
NYPD officer Rebecca De Paula died after breast implant removal surgery in the Dominican Republic. Instagram / nydo_1993“Our hearts are heavy with the loss of our sister P.O. Rebecca DePaula, who passed away while off duty after only 18 months on the job,” Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry said in a statement to The Post.
“We ask all New Yorkers to keep her family, friends and coworkers in your prayers during this difficult time.”
De Paula’s mother told the outlet she rushed to the health center after learning her daughter was in serious condition — but arrived at the clinic to learn she had already died.
De Paula earned the officer of the month award five months ago for her “outstanding police work and dedication to the community,” according to a social media post from the 46th Precinct.
She leaves behind three children and dedicated part of her life to working as a pastor alongside her husband, her family told the outlet.
Officer De Paula was named Officer of the Month in the Bronx’s 46th Precinct in March for her “outstanding police work and dedication to the community.” NYPD 46 Precinct“Horrible news. You was such a beautiful soul. You would say god bless you instead of hi. You had so many good questions,” retired NYPD instructor David Marmol, who trained De Paula, wrote in an Instagram post.
“You had such a bright future. You will be missed by your family, friends and colleagues. May you rest in peace,” Marmol said.
De Paula’s remains have been held at the National Institute of Forensic Sciences and will be transferred to the US for burial.
The young officer’s family is now asking local authorities to investigate the circumstances around the sudden death, and whether medical malpractice or negligence occurred during the procedure.
During breast implant removal surgery, a surgeon may remove breast implants from breast augmentation or breast reconstruction patients, or remove silicone material from implant leaks, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Risks of the procedure include deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications, fluid accumulation, hematoma, and infection, health experts say.
A total of 93 cosmetic surgery–related deaths of US citizens in the Dominican Republic occurred between 2009 and 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In October 2025, NYPD Det. Alicia Stone, died a week after receiving a butt lift and liposuction procedure in Colombia.
The NYPD did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.
