Lawyer To Investigate Misconduct Allegations Against Fire Chief

Chief Paul Labbadia suspended with pay Nov. 3

The Coventry, Rhode Island, Fire District board has hired a lawyer to investigate misconduct allegations against its fire chief.

Chief Paul Labbadia was suspended with pay Nov. 3 after a news video report showed him drinking alcohol during the workday, using a department-paid vehicle to go golfing during work and driving the fire vehicle to a party.

The Providence Journal reports that the district's board has hired lawyer J. William W. Harsch to investigate possible misconduct by Fire Chief Paul Labbadia. He's a former member of the Ethics Commission and a Republican candidate for attorney general.

Labbadia has denied wrongdoing. He said he was on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

His annual pay is $70,000 and his contract extends four years.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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