Folks in Indian Beach, and the rest of the Crystal Coast are pretty concerned. I guess I can understand the concern. If you do an Internet search for the new chief, you’ll get his homepage, as well as a few articles highlighting his alleged wrongdoings, and the investigation that followed. During the investigation Becker retired and the investigation came to a halt.

Now the commissioner Karl Garlock motions to appoint Becker as fire chief, and commissioner Betsy Lane seconds the motion. I am curious though, did these commissioners do a google search on ANY of the fire chief applicants? I mean come on who even pays or spends time on a background check without doing a free Internet search on prospective employees names? Scary stuff indeed. Who knows maybe they did due diligence and this was the best they found. Heck, they’re only paying someone $50K/year for someone to keep a whole town safe from fire.

Granted Chief Becker was never convicted of any wrongdoing, and maybe he deserves his chance. Is it possible he brings some valuable insight and experience to the table? I hope so. However, I hope the Indian Beach firefighters don’t suffer any abuse like he’s been accused of. It will be interesting to see what develops. One thing’s for sure, the Crystal Coast already has their eyes on Chief Becker, and he would be well advised to keep the proverbial “I’s dotted and T’s crossed”.

What really puzzles me, is why did the town of Clearcreek ended its investigation? So now Indian Beach fire department gets stuck with the idea our fire chief may be abusing firefighters. Thanks Clearcreek, OH.