VA Employee Accused of Threatening Supervisors

A VA employee faces serious charges after allegedly threatening to “pop” two supervisors, sparking concerns about workplace safety and veterans’ mental health.

At a Glance

Paul M. Gangi, a VA carpenter, was charged with threatening federal employees.
The alleged threats stem from workplace grievances and perceived harassment.
Gangi is an Iraq War veteran with expert marksmanship qualifications.
The case highlights concerns about veterans’ mental health and workplace tensions.

VA Employee Charged with Threatening Supervisors

Paul M. Gangi, a carpenter at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in Manchester, has been arrested and charged with threatening to assault, kidnap, or murder federal employees with intent to retaliate for their official duties. The charges stem from alleged threats made against two supervisors at the facility, raising concerns about workplace safety and the mental health of veterans employed by the VA.

VA Employee Charged with Threatening Ordered to Wear GPS Monitor https://t.co/z4xqe83L0n

— Military.com (@Militarydotcom) September 26, 2024

The Allegations and Workplace Tensions

On September 5, a VA employee reported that Gangi had made threatening statements about his supervisors. According to court documents, Gangi allegedly said that if they continued “harassing” him, he would “pop” them. The report suggests that Gangi was upset about being relieved of his locksmith duties and felt targeted and harassed by management.

Coworkers described Gangi as having anger issues and noted that he frequently discussed firearms at work. These allegations paint a picture of a tense work environment and highlight the challenges faced by both veterans and VA management in addressing workplace conflicts.

Gangi’s Background and Defense

Paul M. Gangi served in the U.S. Army as a cavalry scout from 1999 to 2007, including a tour in Iraq, and received The Army Commendation Medal. His military discharge documents show he received expert marksmanship qualifications, adding weight to the concerns expressed by his coworkers. Gangi has worked as a carpenter for the VA for the last 13 years.

Gangi’s public defender, Jaye L. Rancourt, stated that Gangi maintains his innocence. During interviews with VA police, Gangi initially denied making threats but later made ambiguous statements about his feelings towards the supervisors. He claimed that the supervisors had taken away his office, computer, phone extension, and tool storage, causing him significant stress. Gangi also mentioned having PTSD and felt that his supervisors were not supportive of his condition.

Legal Proceedings and Potential Consequences

Gangi appeared in U.S. District Court and was temporarily detained pending a detention hearing. U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrea Johnstone later ordered Gangi’s release with several conditions, including wearing a GPS tracking device, undergoing a mental health evaluation, and avoiding contact with potential victims or witnesses. He is also prohibited from entering Manchester VA Medical Center property.

The charge against Gangi carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison. A preliminary hearing was scheduled last week in the U.S. District Court in Concord, with Gangi being set free on the condition that he wear a GPS monitor and avoid Rye and Hudson. The investigation was led by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General.

Implications for VA Workplace Safety

This incident raises important questions about workplace safety at VA facilities and the mental health support provided to veterans employed by the department. The VA Manchester Healthcare System has stated that it is aware of the allegations and is conducting an investigation. The facility’s police continuously monitor and take measures to protect veterans, employees, visitors, and building security.

As this case unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the complex challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life and the critical need for comprehensive mental health support and conflict resolution mechanisms within VA workplaces.