Vernon's Acting Fire Marshal Suspended For Conduct

VERNON, CT — The town's deputy fire marshal who has also been serving as the acting fire marshal has been suspended for two days without pay for creating a "hostile work environment" via some actions determined to be "sexual harassment," and lacking "courtesy," according to disciplinary documents.

Town officials supplied Patch with documents related to the discipline of William Call following a Freedom of Information Act request.

The incidents date back to the fall and winter, according to disciplinary documents. Town officials initiated an investigation after staffers complained, Vernon Town Administrator Michael Purcaro said.

"Town employees are expected to conduct themselves in a courteous and professional manner. Inappropriate behavior in any form will not be tolerated in our workplace," Purcaro said. "The town has strict policies in place designed to prevent-and, when necessary, address-sexual harassment in the workplace. These policies include mandatory training and specific reporting requirements in accordance with state statutes."

He added, "I commend our employees for having the courage to come forward with their concerns and for assisting the town throughout the investigative process."

The accusations include:

• Making a sexual gesture toward a female resident after the resident left the main counter
• Initiating conversations about genetalia
• Commenting about "lawn jockeys" holding lanterns in local yards with racial undertones

The fire marshal's office shares a facility with the local building department.

By signing a "last chance agreement" dated June 28 regarding the suspension, Call acknowledged the town had "substantial" and "credible" evidence that Call violated "rules" of employment. The agreement also notes that Call "had no recollection" of the incidents.

"The Town conducted a thorough investigation that spanned several months. This investigation included the review of documentary evidence, as well as multiple interviews with credible witnesses," Purcaro said. "After carefully considering all available evidence, the town determined the employee in question's actions constituted sexual harassment and created a hostile work environment. The Town has taken all necessary steps to end the harassment and protect the employees who participated in the investigation."

The suspension will be scheduled "based on the needs of the department," according to disciplinary documents.

Any similar conduct in the future could result in termination, according to the disciplinary documents.

Call is no longer the acting fire marshal, according to the documents. His hourly rate is $30.78 as deputy, according to the documents.