SAN ANTONIO - The San Antonio Fire Department Chief Charles Hood officially retired Wednesday following an investigation into inappropriate and offensive comments.
The retirement comes after an outside investigation substantiated claims that Chief Hood made offensive remarks directed toward women.
After serving 17 years at the helm of the San Antonio Fire Department, Chief Hood's retirement was prompted by an incident involving a comment referencing the female anatomy. According to a summary of facts prepared by the city's attorney's office, Hood admitted to saying, "***** always wins." This remark was made to a Fire Department personnel, and while he couldn't confirm if it was used with command staff, he asserted that it was never directed at anyone during a command staff meeting.
City Manager Erik Walsh addressed the situation in an email to fire department personnel, stating, "The Chief admitted to making comments that are vulgar, disrespectful, and demeaning to women."
This incident is not Chief Hood's first controversy. In 2020, he faced scrutiny after posing with a mostly naked woman covered in sushi at a firefighter's birthday party. Although an investigation was launched, a Battalion Chief's complaint about Hood's actions was not investigated at the time, as it was deemed off-duty and not a violation of rules and regulations.
Deputy City Manager Maria Villagomez had previously disciplined Hood for the sushi incident, requiring him to write a paper detailing how he could better carry himself and represent the Fire Department. At that time, she expressed confidence in Hood's ability to improve the department's culture.
In response to the discipline, Hood outlined various actions he would take to promote a culture supportive of women, including expanding the HERO LIKE HER program. The program introduces young women to a career in firefighting through hands-on activities like rappelling and CPR lessons.
Chief Hood, who made history as the department's first African American Fire Chief in April 2007, had received awards, including Metro Fire Chief of the Year in 2010 and 2020. However, his historic career now ends in disgrace.
An interim chief is expected to be named by next week, and a national search for a permanent Fire Department Chief will commence immediately.
The San Antonio Professional Firefighter's Association, IAFF Local 624, acknowledged Hood's forced retirement, expressing awareness of numerous allegations against his administration. They reserved the right to comment further until assurances are provided that all allegations have been thoroughly and professionally investigated.
"vulgar" - Google News
January 04, 2024 at 06:01AM
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'Vulgar, disrespectful and demeaning' - Fire Chief Hood forced into retirement - WOAI
"vulgar" - Google News
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