'Firefighter Four' Accept Offer To Attempt Mediation

Robert Bowen, attorney for 'The Firefighter-Four', veteran members of Groton's on-call Fire Department, men who are suing the town in Federal Court for civil rights violations, denial of due process, denial of property and wrongful termination, have agreed to attempt to mediate their dispute with the town.

Attorney Bowen said, "The events surrounding their separation from the Town have been traumatic for them and their families; the litigation process could take months and years before their rights are ultimately vindicated." He added, "Their emotions are no less raw than they were when the separation occurred, but if the Town is willing now to do the right thing, they need to put this behind them."

After the four former firefighters sued the town for violating their constitutional rights, the town granted three of them a hearing. An independent hearing officer concluded that the town had not established just cause to terminate the firefighters, and recommended their reinstatement. They remain on administrative leave.

Although they were not surprised when the independent hearing vindicated their position, they were and are quite concerned about returning to the department, Bowen said.

In a press release submitted to the Groton Herald, Attorney Bowen wrote, "Unfortunately, the ill-will engendered by their unconstitutional firing could not be undone by the findings of the hearing officer four months later. In a department where trust is paramount as these brave men put their lives on the line, they have grave reservations about returning in the present environment."

Giving examples of the reasons for their concerns, Bowen explained, "Their worst fears were recently confirmed when one of the four was the target of an unspecified threat, in which his friends were also urged to cut ties with him. This incident is currently under investigation. If this were any employment, with any employer, it would be uncomfortable to return. Given nature of the fire department and the relationships necessary to its safe operation, returning would be a disservice to the town."

He went on to explain that a recent social event highlighted the damage done by these unjustified terminations writing, "One of the associations of firefighters held an event for all present and past firefighters earlier this month. In what has become a sad state of affairs, the Town reached out to the plaintiffs to make sure they had no plans to attend. This is their town too. After working hard for the citizens of Groton, to be not invited, or uninvited, to this firefighting event has only further exacerbated the hard feelings."

Bowen said that the firefighters wanted their many supporters to know that they appreciate the continued support they are receiving during a difficult time.