GREENE COUNTY, Va. — Greene County officials have released new information explaining their abrupt decision to shut down the Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Company, leaving many residents confused and concerned about emergency coverage in the area.
On May 23, the Greene County Board of Supervisors disclosed some details, offering more clarity on the controversial decision to ban the department from responding to any emergency calls. According to a letter from the county, the closure stemmed from a range of internal issues within the department, WVIR reported.
The letter included the following issues:
- Pending criminal charges against Assistant Chief Cameron Hord
- Alleged operational deficiencies
- Questions about command roles
- Missed active threat training events
- Concerns about responding to emergency calls
- How money was spent
Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Company President Harold Richards said the department was blindsided by the decision, learning about the shutdown through a letter with no prior discussion.
“They said they want to conduct a due diligence review and that is fine,” Richards said. “Review everything. But let us continue responding while you do.”
Richards says he has not had any direct conversations with the board of supervisors but is open to sitting down with them.
