SUNY Downstate physician sentenced to 1 to 3 years for embezzling .4 million from hospital and medical school.
A prominent physician at SUNY Downstate Medical Center has been sentenced to imprisonment following a substantial embezzlement case amounting to over .4 million. Dr. Michael Lucchesi, 67, who previously held the position of head of emergency medicine at the institution, diverted funds from the medical center’s finances to finance luxurious personal expenditures, including lavish dog care services for his pets.
The fraudulent activity extended over a period of more than six years, beginning in December 2016 and continuing until an audit by the New York State Offices of the Inspector General uncovered the illicit misuse of funds. Investigators revealed that Lucchesi used a business credit card assigned to the Brooklyn-based hospital and medical school not only to augment his already substantial six-figure salary, but also to support his lavish lifestyle.
Among the various expenses he incurred, approximately 6,000 was allocated specifically for the care of five dogs owned by Lucchesi and his girlfriend. Notably, nearly 0,000 was spent at the Greenleaf Pet Resort & Hotel in Millstone Township, New Jersey, according to prosecutors. Furthermore, Lucchesi’s records indicated that he misappropriated funds for 8,000 worth of personal travel, 9,000 in gym memberships, ,000 for catering services, ,000 for his children’s tuition, and significant cash advances amounting to 5,000. Additional purchases included items such as flowers, liquor, and electronics.
After being indicted in July 2024, Lucchesi pled guilty to grand larceny in June 2025. His sentencing took place in Brooklyn Supreme Court, where he received a prison term ranging from one to three years. The Brooklyn District Attorney, Eric Gonzalez, emphasized the gravity of Lucchesi’s actions, stating that he betrayed a critical trust by misappropriating funds intended for patient care and essential medical services, instead using them to support his own interests.
Lucchesi’s professional history includes serving as the acting head of both Downstate Hospital and the accompanying medical school, alongside his role as chief medical officer. State payroll data revealed that in 2023, he earned a base salary exceeding 0,000, with his total compensation surpassing 0,000 from 2016 to 2019. Despite the legal ramifications of his actions, Lucchesi’s attorney expressed that he was well-regarded within the Brooklyn community for his dedication to patients throughout his 35-year career.
As the legal proceedings conclude, the impact of Lucchesi’s actions will continue to resonate within the medical community and among patients who relied on the services of SUNY Downstate Medical Center.
Media News Source
