Fire Law Blog Fire Service and Public Safety Legal Issues Blog by Curt Varone
Two Alabama firefighters are facing criminal charges over an incident that occurred on September 20, 2024. The incident involved a firefighter who reportedly refused to stop for the county sheriff while operating a fire truck, and the department’s fire chief who was upset about the arrest.
According to the South Alabamian, Washington County Sheriff Richard Stringer observed a fire truck from the Wagarville Volunteer Fire Department operating at a high rate of speed. When he attempted to stop the truck, the driver continued on. The driver, identified as Deborah Roberts, 53, was eventually stopped by another officer and charged with attempting to elude. She was taken to the county jail.
Fire Chief Stephen Stokes, 47, was arrested at the Washington County Courthouse later that day when he approached Sheriff Stringer about the arrest. Chief Stokes was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.
According to the South Alabamian, Chief Stokes raised his voice and despite being asked to leave, persisted in cursing, and then fought back while being placed under arrest. More on the story.
