DOCTOR CHARGED AFTER VACCINE DOSES STOLEN

Texas doctor Hasan Gokal, 48, has been fired and charged after he allegedly stole nine doses of the coronavirus vaccine to give to his family and friends.

He could face a year in prison and a US$4,000 fine.

Gokal, pictured, stole a vial of the vaccine on Dec. 29, 2020, while working at a vaccination site, the district attorney said in a release.

A week later, he confessed to a colleague, who in turn reported him. Gokal was investigated and later fired.

Gokal's attorney said the doctor was ensuring none of the doses went unused.

The DA's office said mishandling vaccines can result in a loss of government funding to the county.