The former chief medical officer at SUNY Downstate Medical Center has been sentenced to up to three years in prison after stealing nearly $1.5 million from a public hospital to fund a lavish lifestyle.
Dr. Michael Luckesi, 67, received a sentence of one to three years from the Brooklyn Supreme Court on Wednesday after admitting to misappropriating about $1.44 million meant for hospital expenses. He used these funds for personal travel, his children’s college tuition, and an astonishing $176,000 in pet care.
In court, Luckesi appeared in a faded blue sweatshirt and jeans, and he chose not to say anything when invited to speak before Judge Danny Chun issued the sentence.
Prosecutors noted that Luckesi, who served as the emergency medical president at SUNY Downstate, executed his theft between December 2016 and January 2023 by using business credit cards for personal charges.
Among his expenses, he treated his dog to $176,000 worth of care, including a $120,000 bill to Greenleaf Pet Resort & Hotel in New Jersey.
He also charged $348,000 on his company card for personal travel and spent $92,000 on events such as concerts, sporting matches, and Broadway shows.
Additionally, he misused $109,000 to cover gym memberships and personal training fees at a New York sports club.
Luckesi entered a guilty plea for first-degree grand larceny on June 13th.
As part of a plea deal, he has agreed to repay $720,000, which includes restitution to New York State Tax and Downstate Hospital.
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez commented, saying, “The defendant was in a trusted position at a significant healthcare facility and breached that trust by stealing nearly $1.5 million.” He emphasized that the stolen money could have greatly benefited patient care and health services.
Luckesi’s attorney expressed that Luckesi aims to redeem himself, claiming his legacy would ultimately reflect positively on the Brooklyn community after 25 years of service.
