BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. — Allegations described as “disgusting” and “nauseating” have surfaced within the Baltimore County Fire Department, prompting a police investigation and major public health concerns.
The Baltimore Banner reported that in a message to staff on Dec. 3, Fire Chief Joseph Dixon said an employee accused of misconduct is “not in the workplace at this time” and that the department will conduct hazmat cleaning at all fire stations and offices.
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The investigation centers on allegations that the employee recorded videos of himself masturbating in public areas at multiple county firehouses, a source told WMAR 2 News. Councilman David Marks said firefighters and paramedics informed him about the situation several days ago.
Dixon said health officials believe that even if the allegations are confirmed, the risk to employees is minimal to none. Still, fire department staff are being encouraged to get tested at the employee health center.
Officials have begun hazmat cleaning at all career fire stations and in fire department offices within the public safety building to include:
- High-touch surfaces (door handles, push plates, light switches, etc.)
- Bathrooms and all fixtures
- Water fountains
- Kitchens (surfaces, sinks, appliances-inside and out)
- Bunk rooms (beds, furniture)
- Lockers (inside and out)
- Floors (deep cleaning and sanitizing using germicidal products)
- Several vehicles will also undergo professional cleaning and sanitization
The department is also replacing ice machines.
Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier called the allegations disturbing and said employee health and safety are the county’s top priority. In a statement, she said her administration is working with department leaders and IAFF Local 1311 to ensure firefighters have the resources and support they need as the investigation continues, but declined further comment, citing it as a personnel matter.
IAFF Local 1311 President Steve Redmer called the alleged actions a “serious breach of trust” with “no place in the department.”
