WCNC

LINCOLNTON, N.C. -- A Lincoln County paramedic is charged with stealing from his coworkers and a patient.

Lincoln County detectives arrested Robert Drobinski Tuesday for numerous breaking and entering and larceny charges. Investigators received a written confession from Drobinski and Lincoln County EMS fired him Tuesday.

Drobinski went before a judge Wednesday morning. Drobinski didn’t deny that he stole the money but told WCNC there were circumstances for what went on and he is trying to make restitution.

Investigators say he stole hundreds of dollars out of co-workers’ wallets stored in the ambulance and in another case, investigators say he was caught red-handed stealing money and tools out of a co-worker’s car. Officials say Drobinski stole the employee’s keys off a table.

When Larry Stewart had a massive heart attack last month, he never expected a paramedic would help save his life, and steal from him in the process. Stewart says he sent Drobinski in his wallet to get his medical information card, and Drobinski helped himself to his $60.

“I’m relieved they got him, but I guess appalled as you say because you just don’t think somebody, when they’ve got your life in their hands and they’re taking money out of your pocket,” Stewart said.

Lincoln County EMS officials say they never had any concern with Drobinski until the allegations surfaced. They ran a background check prior to hiring him and it was clean. He has worked for the department for six months.

“Obviously there is some anger from our department because we deal with individuals on a very intimate level. And we feel it’s one of the most important things we have with the public is their trust; and we want the public to know that we are loyal to them, we are there to protect them and we are very trustworthy,” said Major John Watts with Lincoln County EMS.

Stewart says he’s grateful to the rescuers but can’t believe what happened.

“They were working frantically to save me and they did save my life, and I appreciate that. What they did, it just blows your mind, you don’t want to think about that,” said Stewart.

Prior to working for Lincoln County EMS, Drobinski worked for Gaston County EMS. Mark Lamphiear, Director of Medical Services, says Drobinski worked for the department for several years and was a good employee.

Drobinski is scheduled to appear again in court in April.