Pocono News Section

Calls For Independent Review Of Accusations Against Fire Chief

Calls For Independent Review Of Accusations Against Fire Chief - Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at 11:47PM EST

Reported by: Joe Holden
Tuesday, Feb 26, 2008 @11:47pm EST

SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY- Some members of Scranton's government believe an independent review is the only way to sort through fact and fiction regarding claims against Scranton Fire Chief Tom Davis.

At least two city council members believe a simmering dispute between firefighters, their union and Chief Davis has spiraled beyond their control. Talk of the independent examination of serious claims against the fire chief comes two days ahead of a scheduled sit-down meeting with city administrators and the two council members.

And while Scranton City Council has no authority of Chief Davis, several firefighters still blasted their boss in front of the governing body. Tuesday night's developments mark the latest in what's been a string of accusations against Davis, probing his own calls on safety. Two firemen alleged Davis ignored safety protocol while the department was assisting last year in a high profile recovery operation nearing Roaring Brook.

"You talk about safety for us. He (Davis) goes down there, he wants to be the hero. And if he went down and got hurt, we would have to change our whole operation to rescue him," Firefighter Shawn Chorba told council.

The firefighters at the meeting would not speak with us on camera. A union representative said he did not want to add more fuel to the fire.

Chief Davis has been on the force for 25 years. Mayor Chris Doherty has publicly backed him, despite calls for Davis' termination. Councilman Bill Courtright said he believes the issue is out of his hands. "I think this is beyond you and me here. I mean, this is some serious stuff, if it's true. If it's not true, this man (Davis ) needs to have his name cleared."

Public Safety Director Ray Hayes said he believed Thursday morning's meeting was still on, as scheduled. He added the issue is taking on "a life of its own."