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4 R.I. firefighters fired, 4 resign amid criminal investigation

The city of Pawtucket dismissed four firefighters and accepted the resignations of four more firefighters following an internal investigation into alleged criminal activity and violations of public trust

PAWTUCKET, R.I. — The city of Pawtucket has taken disciplinary action against eight firefighters following an internal investigation into alleged criminal activity.

City spokesperson Chris Hunter confirmed on April 15 that four firefighters were terminated, while the other four either resigned or filed for retirement, WPRI reported.

According to Hunter, the investigation found that the firefighters had engaged in conduct that may constitute criminal activity and violated the public’s trust.

“We are unable to comment further at this time due to an ongoing criminal investigation being conducted in coordination with the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office,” Hunter said. “While these matters are serious and remain under investigation, it is important to emphasize that the actions of these firefighters do not reflect the dedication, integrity or professionalism of the Pawtucket Fire Department as a whole.”

Details of the criminal investigation remain unclear, and it’s unknown whether any charges have been filed. WPRI has contacted the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office for further information.

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