BRENTWOOD, N.Y. — A Democratic lawmaker from Long Island has filed charges against a local fire chief who allegedly stormed into his office and left staff shaken amid an escalating dispute over the fire department’s involvement in ICE raids in July.
State Assemblyman Phil Ramos issued a trespass notice against East Brentwood Fire Chief Bryant Figueroa, barring him from the office under threat of arrest, and formally filed charges following a confrontation on July 10 that capped days of public tension, the New York Post reported.
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“Figueroa’s actions represent a clear violation of New York State Penal Law,” Ramos said in a statement. “His aggressive and unannounced entry created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in what should be a safe and respectful workplace.”
A spokesperson for Ramos said Figueroa will only get a court summons. Suffolk police said charges haven’t been officially filed and the case is still under investigation.
Figueroa responded by accusing Ramos of using political pressure to push baseless claims.
“Assemblyman Phil Ramos filed charges against me, first by approaching the New York State Police in a confrontational manner,” Figueroa said. “When informed that no crime had been committed, he then went to the local precinct, applying pressure in what appears to be a clear abuse of his title and influence.”
The clash began in early July after ICE was seen using a local firehouse parking lot. Ramos accused fire officials of aiding immigration raids and led a protest.
Fire officials said they didn’t know ICE was using the lot and couldn’t stop it since it’s public property. Days later, Ramos said Figueroa stormed into his office “visibly angry,” ignored staff and forced his way into a private room.
The Post reported local firefighters say the “petty” feud between the two has dragged on too long and should be put to rest.
