Connecticut Correction Ombuds Releases Investigation into DOC Physician's Arrest, Professional Qualifications, and Security Investigations
Report examines physician's professional qualifications, arrest, continued employment, and multiple DOC Security Division investigations involving concerns about patient care and workplace conduct
HARTFORD, Conn. — The Connecticut Office of the Correction Ombuds today released an investigative report examining significant concerns involving Dr. Lupis, a physician employed by the Connecticut Department of Correction (DOC), including his arrest, professional qualifications, and continued employment with the Department despite multiple internal security investigations involving concerns raised by incarcerated individuals and fellow healthcare professionals.
The investigation, led by Healthcare Ombuds Amy Zipf, examined the circumstances surrounding the physician's arrest and his subsequent employment within DOC, including questions concerning his professional qualifications and lack of board certification. The Office reviewed applicable professional certification requirements, including the requirement that a staff physician obtain certification within five years, and the fact that approximately six and a half years had elapsed since the physician began his employment.
The investigation also examined the physician's return to Cybulski Correctional Institution, documentation and workplace substantiation issues under DOC Administrative Directive 2.17, referrals to the Connecticut Department of Public Health, and multiple investigations conducted by DOC's Security Division involving the physician. The Office reviewed the Department's handling, documentation, and timeliness of those investigations.
Additionally, the report considered relevant DOC litigation and settlement information as part of the Office's broader examination of the Department's response to concerns involving the physician.
Healthcare Ombuds Amy Zipf, who led the investigation, stated:
"This investigation raised important questions about the Department's responsibility to ensure that healthcare professionals working within correctional facilities meet applicable professional standards and that concerns involving their conduct are thoroughly investigated and appropriately addressed. When questions arise involving a physician's qualifications, an arrest, and repeated internal security investigations, the Department must demonstrate that it has taken those concerns seriously, conducted appropriate reviews, and implemented safeguards necessary to protect the health and safety of incarcerated individuals as well as the work environment of other healthcare professionals. Independent oversight is essential to ensuring that these responsibilities are met."
Correction Ombuds DeVaughn Ward stated:
"Healthcare within correctional facilities requires a high degree of accountability. The Department has a responsibility to ensure that medical professionals meet applicable professional standards and that significant concerns involving their conduct are properly investigated and addressed. This report examines the Department's handling of those responsibilities and identifies issues that warrant attention and accountability."
The report was transmitted to DOC Commissioner Sharonda Carlos on October 9, 2026. Consistent with Public Act 26-40, the Office provided the required advance public notice before releasing the report.
Following the Office's investigation, DOC informed OCO that Dr. Lupis has been placed on administrative leave.
The Department has been afforded an opportunity to provide a written response to the report. Its response is due to the Office no later than October 30, 2026. Upon receipt, the Office will review the Department's response and determine whether additional follow-up is necessary.
The report will also be provided to the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the Office of Labor Relations through the Office of Policy and Management.
The Office of the Correction Ombuds is an independent state agency responsible for monitoring conditions of confinement, investigating complaints and concerns involving the Department of Correction, and promoting accountability and transparency within Connecticut's correctional system.
Media Contact:
Connecticut Office of the Correction Ombuds
correction.ombuds@ct.gov