Austin Firefighter Charged, Accused Of Choking Son: Police

AUSTIN, TX - A longtime Austin firefighter is now on restrictive duty following his recent arrest. The Austin Police Department has charged Darren Hyson, 50, with injury to a child, a third-degree felony, according to a news report. Hyson has been with the Austin Fire Department for more than two decades.

According to a report in the Austin American-Statesman, police say Hyson choked his 14-year-old son on Nov. 6 on their way to church. The incident reportedly left a bruise on the boy’s neck. Hyson's mother was the one who called police after seeing swelling and redness on the teen boy's neck, the report says.

The Statesman reports that Hyson turned himself in on Nov. 15 and was released on a personal bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 6.

In 2013, Hyson was awarded the Civic/Government Image Award from the Edwards Ministerial Association for his work with the AFT Explorer program which introduces young adults to careers in emergency services and teaches them about leadership.

"Darren has been instrumental in reviving this program and helping build it into the success it is today. Way to go, Darren!" the Austin Fire Department posted on its official Facebook page at the time.

Hyson is also a veteran, having served in the United States Air Force for three decades. He is also a member of the Austin African-American Firefighters Association and currently serves on the executive board.

If convicted of the charge, he could face up to 10 years in prison.