An interesting series of reports from WAGA-TV about current and former prisoners being used as firefighters in Georgia. In some cases these are part of long-used, sanctioned programs involving state prisons. But in the City of McDonough, it was a very different story involving a trustee named Jamie Clark. Clark had an interesting background that apparently was not properly checked. Reporter Randy Travis had a very candid conversation with this convicted felon who suddenly became a volunteer firefighter.
Also on STATter911 …
- Reporters look closely at arrest records in two fire departments. Firefighters’ brushes with the law are being scrutinized in Memphis & Pittsburgh. – January 24, 2010
- Fire department and town hall burn in Ashland, New York. Firehouse destroyed and rigs heavily damaged. – January 11, 2010
- Updated Quick Takes – March 4, 2010
- Quick Takes – November 11, 2009
That’s exactly why we have a law in NY that requires an arson check as part of the membership screening process and prevents an arsonist from becoming a firefighter.It also requires that an arson tag be assigned to any arson related conviction even though the plaintiff may plead down to a non-arson charge such as criminal mischief. We’re trying to fill some of the cracks that these folks slip through.
Didn’t you hear him on the video? He said he didn’t do it, so he must be innocent… I’m surprised that anyone including the city administrator won’t face some disciplinary action for this. Their failure to use common sense will haunt them.
There are plenty of career and volunteer firefighters that have been arrested for an assortment of crimes. These men have served their time and are about done they should get their chance. You are going to get a couple bad apples at times.
Sounds like P.g. County