Autopsy reports prompt investigation
 
By Michele McPhee
The Boston Herald 

BOSTON — Mayor Thomas M. Menino has convened a three-member panel empowered to review the policies and procedures of the Boston Fire Department as it relates to drug and alcohol use at city firehouses.

The panel is charged with making recommendations by Dec. 1 on how the fire department can address alcoholism and addiction for firefighters, the mayor announced yesterday.

The move comes in the aftermath of an autopsy report that city officials briefed on toxicology results say shows two of Boston's bravest who died in the line of duty in August were under the influence.

Firefighter Warren Payne had traces of cocaine and marijuana in his bloodstream, several city officials said. Firefighter Paul Cahill had a blood alcohol level of .27, the sources said. Both jakes were battling a West Roxbury restaurant fire Aug. 29 when the building exploded, killing both men.

"Two months ago, two of Boston's finest died doing their job keeping our city safe," Menino said. "As the city and their families continue to mourn their loss, we must reassure the public that our fire department is strong and fully capable of protecting our residents and themselves."

Twelve firefighters have been fired since 2004 by the Boston Fire Department for violating the drug policy and more than 150 more have been recommended for substance abuse treatment, fire officials said.

Ed Kelly, President of Local 718, the union that represents city firefighters, did not return calls last night. He is opposed to mandatory drug testing.

"This is not about contract negotiations," Menino told the Herald. "It's about what supervisors can do when they encounter someone with a problem."

The panel is comprised of former Massport CEO Craig Coy, Dr. Sheila Chapman, a substance abuse specialist at Boston Medical Center, and former congressman James Shannon, president of the National Fire Protection Assoc.

Copyright 2007 Boston Herald Inc.