Former Highwood Deputy Fire Chief on Trial for Misconduct

Former Highwood Deputy Fire Chief Ronald Pieri is standing trial this week on felony charges of official misconduct, theft and false entry for allegedly falsifying time records and claiming compensation for hours not worked.

The city’s former Fire Chief Thomas Lovejoy testified Tuesday for the prosecution, according to the Highland Park News.

Prosecutors described Pieri as “a disgruntled employee” who “wanted to work 9 to 5 like everyone else” in their opening statement Monday. But defense attorneys questioned Lovejoy Tuesday on a memo he sent in 2007 that described Pieri’s work as “outstanding.”

“I was directed by the city manager that (Pieri) was going to be given a $20,000 pay raise and I should prepare a city memo,” Lovejoy said.

“A deputy chief’s position, in true fashion — totally administrative — was not feasible for the Highwood Fire Department.”

more via the Highland Park News