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Des Moines firefighters accused of misconduct allowed to retire with disability pensions despite
Des Moines firefighters accused of misconduct allowed to retire with disability pensions despite state prohibitionOver the past 12 years, the city of Des Moines has helped at least three firefighters who faced termination for alcohol-related offenses instead retire with disability benefits — despite a state law prohibiting the practice, the Des Moines Register has found.
In addition, other fire department personnel have remained on the job even after being disciplined for drunken driving or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while at work.
The practice of helping firefighters claim disability while facing discipline has enabled accused workers to — some of whom have histories of misconduct — retire while continuing to collect half their regular pay.
Since 2002, Iowa law has prohibited firefighters from applying for disability if they are not currently in “good standing” or are the subject of an investigation that could lead to their dismissal.
Read more: https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/investigations/2018/09/11/des-moines-firefighters-drunk-driving-misconduct-retire-benefits-john-tekippe-phillip-vorlander/818823002/