Pawtucket firefighters could lose their jobs amid investigation of ‘disturbing allegations’
PAWTUCKET – Several Pawtucket firefighters could be fired as the city investigates “very disturbing allegations” against them.
Grace Voll, director of communications for Mayor Donald Grebien, would not disclose the allegations but confirmed that so-called pre-deprivation hearings were held on Wednesday for several firefighters after an internal investigation.
“This is a personnel matter, and the investigation is still ongoing,” Voll said in an email.
Pre-deprivation, or Loudermill, hearings are a due process right for public employees facing serious disciplinary action such as suspension or termination, according to attorney Vincent F. Ragosta Jr., who represented the city. In such hearings, the employer presents its case for discipline and gives the employee a chance to respond, Ragosta said.
On Wednesday, the firefighters made “blanket” denials of the allegations through their union representative and declined the chance “to tell their side of the story,” Ragosta said. It’s now up to the city to decide what action to take, according to Ragosta.
“These are very disturbing allegations, and they are incompatible with the public safety obligations of first responders,” Ragosta said. “They will warrant discipline up to and including termination.”
The firefighters union, IAFF Local 1261, did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. The union represents 152 men and women, according to its website.
Voll said, “As more information becomes publicly available, we will share it.”
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: ‘Disturbing allegations’ prompt hearings for Pawtucket firefighters
