NY Police Officer, 31, Dies in Dominican Republic Days After Cosmetic Procedure as Family Waits for Answers

An Officer Whose Career Was Still Beginning

DePaula joined the NYPD in January 2025, according to the New York Daily News (NYDN) and public employment records published by 50-a.org.

The records show she later served with the 46th Precinct Field Training Unit before being assigned to the 46th Precinct in June 2026, where she remained at the time of her death.

Although she had served with the department for only about 18 months, colleagues said she had already distinguished herself through her work.

Five months before her death, DePaula stood before fellow officers and community members during the 46th Precinct's March Community Council meeting to receive the precinct's Officer of the Month award.

According to an official 46th Precinct Facebook post, she was recognized for "outstanding police work and dedication to the community." A photograph shared by the precinct shows DePaula standing beside Commanding Officer Deputy Inspector Moran as she accepted the recognition.

Only months later, the same law enforcement community was mourning her loss. "Our hearts are heavy with the loss of our sister P.O. Rebecca De Paula, who passed away while off duty after only 18 months on the job," Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry said in a statement provided to the NYDN.