Paramedic Peter Cichuniec was sentenced to five years in prison for the death of Elijah McClain in 2019. This case is significant as it is rare for emergency medical personnel to face criminal prosecution. Two other emergency workers were also convicted. The incident has led to concerns among paramedics and firefighters about the criminalization of their urgent decisions. The convictions have raised questions about the dynamic between police and paramedics at a scene. The use of ketamine by paramedics has also been under scrutiny, leading to policy changes in some fire departments. The sentencing has sparked mixed reactions, with community activists disappointed by what they view as a light sentence.