A veteran carpenter at the Manchester VA Hospital has been arrested for allegedly threatening to harm his supervisors.
At a Glance
- Paul M. Gangi, a VA hospital carpenter, was charged with threatening to shoot his supervisors.
- He is under multiple restrictive conditions, including GPS monitoring and mental health evaluations.
- The charge carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
- Gangi served in the U.S. Army from 1999-2007 and has been a carpenter for 13 years.
- The incident highlights issues of workplace violence and veterans’ mental health struggles.
Charges and Allegations
Paul M. Gangi, employed as a carpenter at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs hospital in Manchester, NH, is facing serious legal trouble. The former Army cavalry scout stands accused of threatening to shoot two of his supervisors. He was charged with one count of threatening to assault, kidnap, or murder federal employees with intent to retaliate.
The threats were reported to the authorities by a Veterans Health Administration employee who said Gangi was “venting” about losing his locksmith duties and feeling harassed. The witness noted that Gangi owns guns, is a “doomsday prepper,” and referred to his house as a compound.
Court Proceedings and Conditions
Gangi appeared in U.S. District Court and was represented by attorney Jaye Rancourt. U.S. Magistrate Judge Andrea Johnstone ordered Gangi’s release under several stringent conditions, including GPS monitoring, home confinement, and undergoing mental health assessments. He is also banned from entering specific areas like Rye and Hudson and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
“If they keep harassing me, I am going to come in and pop these guys.” – Paul M. Gangi
Gangi initially denied making any threats but later stated conditionally that if he were to take any drastic action, it would not be on VA property. Court documents reveal that Gangi’s frustrations stemmed from losing his office, computer, phone extension, and tool storage. He also lamented feeling harassed and unsupported by his supervisors. Furthermore, coworkers described him as a “ticking time bomb” and expressed fear about the potential for a violent incident.
Background and Implications
Paul M. Gangi served in the Army as a cavalry scout between 1999 and 2007, including a tour in Iraq. For the past 13 years, he has worked as a carpenter. According to court filings, Gangi has been awarded The Army Commendation Medal and expert marksmanship qualifications. Despite his service record, the current allegations are far from commendable.
“It never used to be that way,” he said. “I love this f—ing facility. This is my hospital; this place saved my life. I take pride in it. But I’ve been s— on so much, and it’s at every turn.” – Paul M. Gangi
The VA Manchester Healthcare System is fully aware of the allegations and has launched an internal investigation. Their police continuously monitor the situation and take measures to protect all associated individuals and the facility’s security. This case not only raises concerns about workplace violence but also shines a spotlight on the mental health struggles faced by veterans reentering civilian life.
Sources
1. Manchester VA employee charged with threatening ordered to wear GPS monitor
2. Employee arrested for alleged shooting threat at Veterans Affair hospital in N.H.
