WASHINGTON HEIGHTS – The chief in the Washington Heights Fire Department in the Town of Wallkill has been removed from duty following remarks he posted on his personal Facebook page.
Chuck Healy called protesters “pavement apes,” a comment the fire department said was “insensitive and inappropriate at a time when all people should be unified against hate and discrimination,” a post on the fire department’s Facebook page said.
“The members of the fire department are frankly embarrassed and assure the community that these statements do not reflect the views of our volunteer firefighters.”
The department said Healy was removed from duty while the department reviews all of its disciplinary options with their lawyers. “The reaction of the fire department will be swift but enforcement of our high standards must be done properly and in accordance with state law.”
The fire officials “strongly suggest” that Healy apologize.
In anticipation of public outcry, the department asked the community not to obstruct the department’s operations in any way.
