AMR manager: we take complaints seriously

PORTLAND, Ore. - An ambulance company general manager took the stand Friday defending his company in a $5 million lawsuit.

Randy Lauer of American Medical Response of Oregon said he takes complaints about his paramedics seriously. But Royshekka Herring, who is suing the company, said she believes she would not have been molested by paramedic Lannie Haszard had AMR done more to prevent it.

Herring and three other female patients were sexually abused by Haszard in the back of ambulances.

Lauer said that while his company took complaints very seriously, Haszard was very good at hiding his crimes.

“I feel terrible for what happened,” he said. “Such a convincing liar and that he did this to our patients. It’s disgusting.”

Herring’s attorney, Greg Kafoury, however, questioned whether the company was forthcoming with law enforcement about Haszard’s complaint history.

Herring took the stand within the last few moments of the trial day to give jurors basic information about herself Then court adjourned. She will resume her testimony next week.

Herring’s lawsuit is the first of five filed against AMR in connection with Haszard.