Speaking With News Media Leads to Termination of 2 Texas Firefighters

Posted by: Curt Varone October 12, 2022 0

Two Texas firefighters have been dismissed after speaking to a local reporter about what they claim is an abuse of power and hostile environment by a local police chief who is serving as acting president of the local volunteer fire company. Lieutenant Drew Cizek and Benjamin Gullet say they were terminated from the Central Bell County Fire & Rescue after an interview with Channel 25.

At the center of the dispute is Nolanville Police Chief Michael Hatton, who was appointed acting president of the fire company while an audit is being conducted.

More on the story.

About Curt Varone

Curt Varone has over 45 years of fire service experience and 35 as a practicing attorney licensed in both Rhode Island and Maine. His background includes 29 years as a career firefighter in Providence (retiring as a Deputy Assistant Chief), as well as volunteer and paid on call experience. He is the author of two books: Legal Considerations for Fire and Emergency Services, (2006, 2nd ed. 2011, 3rd ed. 2014, 4th ed. 2022) and Fire Officer's Legal Handbook (2007), and is a contributing editor for Firehouse Magazine writing the Fire Law column.
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