The Elijah McClain Trial Challenges Paramedics' Rarely Charged Status

The trial of two Colorado paramedics charged with manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in the death of Elijah McClain could have far-reaching implications for paramedics nationwide, as they are rarely held accountable for deaths that occur while treating patients. The case is unprecedented, as it is rare for emergency medical technicians to face any consequences for their actions on the job. The paramedics diagnosed McClain with "excited delirium" and administered a large dose of ketamine before he suffered a heart attack and died. The trial could lead to a chilling effect, making paramedics more cautious about arriving at scenes where law enforcement is present.