Two firefighters who claim they were stripped of their badges by Fire Chief Darren Rosario for publicly criticizing him are suing the chief and the county.
Earlier this month, attorney Ted Hong filed a lawsuit in Hilo Circuit Court on behalf of West Hawaii Battalion Chief Ty Medeiros and a separate amended complaint on behalf of retired West Hawaii Battalion Chief Steve Loyola. The civil suits allege the suspensions violated their right to due process, that they were retaliated against for being whistle-blowers, and were defamed and humiliated.
The suits also claim the county was negligent in supervising Rosario “concerning the performance of his job, including following personnel laws and policies concerning recruitment, internal complaints, harassment, and endangerment of Fire Department personnel and the general public.”
The suits seek reinstatement, back pay, fringe benefits, seniority and overtime, compensatory and punitive damages, and attorneys fees and costs.
Medeiros’ suit claims he lost more than $40,000 in overtime and vacation pay during a seven-month suspension. Loyola, who has retired, estimates he lost more than $51,550 as a result of being placed on indefinite administrative leave.