Trial of Winkler County Nurse who reported Doctor to Texas Medical Board-Part 1
The trial began on February 8, 2010 with jury selection. Prior to the trial, one of the two nurses, Vicki Galle, originally indicted was dismissed from the case. Anne Mitchell’s trial involves felony charges for mis-using private, patient files to harass the County hospital’s doctor. On February 9, 2010, testimony began in the trial. The IT person testified and then Dr. Arafiles testified. The allegations of his poor care were discussed and Dr. Arafiles actually testified that he did not think there was a difference in the way diabetic patients healed compared to non-diabetics. It was also pointed out that the Sheriff is a friend of Dr. Arafiles and a business associate as well. For news articles see: CBS7 and the New York Times.
Personal take: The fact that these nurses were ever charged with anything is not justice. The actions taken by the Sheriff and the DA reek of “good ol’ boy” tactics. This case should be thrown out and the “officials” involved investigated for misuse of official power. The “system” only works if all involved believe in it–that it is fair and that the people in power have no personal agendas for their actions and are acting based on the best for the public. For a Sheriff and DA to go after whistle blowers is an affront to their job of protecting the public.