Update on Fire Rescue Internal Review Following Criminal Investigation

In late November, county leadership stood with the Marion County Sheriff's Office to address a deeply troubling incident that led to criminal charges against four members of Marion County Fire Rescue. We understand the seriousness of this situation and the concern it has caused within our community.

The actions alleged are unacceptable and do not reflect the values, mission, or standards that guide Marion County Fire Rescue or Marion County government. Our residents expect and deserve professionalism, integrity, and respect from those entrusted to serve them.

Since that time, Marion County Fire Rescue and county leadership have conducted a comprehensive internal review, working closely with the Marion County Sheriff's Office Internal Affairs team while the criminal investigation continued. This review was deliberate and thorough, not rushed, because accountability and transparency matter to the people we serve.

As a result of the findings, Marion County has taken decisive administrative action. Six additional individuals are no longer employed with the county, including all leadership personnel who were on duty during the shift at Station 21 on the day of the incident. Two individuals were cleared to return to work. Information gathered during the investigation indicates the conduct was isolated to a single shift at that station.

"Because of the seriousness of these allegations, our responsibility goes beyond discipline," said Board of County Commissioners Chairman Carl Zalak, III. "We are committed to preventing this from happening again, upholding the highest professional standards, protecting our employees and the public, and strengthening the safeguards that help earn and keep the trust of our community."

Marion County Fire Rescue maintains zero tolerance for conduct that falls short of the professionalism and integrity our citizens expect. We remain committed to accountability, transparency, and restoring the confidence of the community we are proud to serve.