By Carl Chancellor
The Akron Beacon Journal, Ohio
AKRON, Ohio — Akron Fire Chief Larry Bunner confirmed that his department is conducting an internal investigation into allegations that firefighters used racial slurs.
One or more white firefighters allegedly used the “n” word in the presence of a minority firefighter last week at Station No. 4, 25 E. Thornton St.
A complaint was filed in writing with the department.
“We started our investigation as soon as we learned about the allegation,” Bunner said. “We take something like this very seriously and we aren’t treating it lightly.”
Mark Williamson, spokesman for Mayor Don Plusquellic, confirmed that the incident is under investigation. He said his office had been advised by the city Law Department not to comment because of the investigation.
When the investigation has been completed, the city will take appropriate action, Williamson said.
Bunner said the allegation has not created tension or a rift in firefighter ranks.
“We are professionals,” Bunner said. He said the allegations would not have an impact on how firefighters do their jobs.
Bunner said Station No. 4 has three 11-person shifts. He declined to say on which shift the alleged incident occurred.
Brunner called it “an isolated incident.”
“We’ve started our interviews (Thursday) and we still have others yet to interview,” Bunner said.
The interviews will help determine whether to seek disciplinary action.
There is no timetable for the completion of the investigation, he said.
Copyright 2007 Akron Beacon Journal