NEW YORK — Disciplinary charges have been filed against 14 members of New York City Fire Department accused of submitting fraudulent educational credits from a bogus online school.
Thirteen fire officers and one firefighter have each been charged with knowingly making a false official entry, statement, report or record, conduct bringing reproach upon the department, and violating the oath of office.
They face fines, suspension or even dismissal if found guilty. Earlier this month, the Department of Investigation said the 14 members used fake diplomas in an attempt to secure promotions in the past several years.
The New York Post reported that the members bought diplomas for between $500 and $800 from the fictional St. Regis College in Liberia from 2002.
Eleven of the firefighters went on to earn acceptable degrees, added the report, while three were promoted despite not having proper credits.
“The fire officers submitted transcripts in order to fulfill educational requirements needed for promotion; the firefighter submitted credits so he would be appointed,” said a statement released by the FDNY Thursday.
“As with all internal disciplinary proceedings, the penalties could range from monetary fines or suspension, up to termination.”