Seven firefighters have been disciplined for allegedly hazing an African-American firefighter, violating the FDNY’s “zero tolerance” hazing policy.
Although the FDNY would not name the firefighters involved or give details on what the hazing was, one insider said that “they put the guy’s locker in the bathroom.”
On Thursday, the penalties were announced as the firefighters involved lost 3 to 30 days’ pay and 15 vacation days.
The “zero tolerance” hazing policy prohibits firefighters from participating in any kind of hazing that might lead to physical injury or “personal humiliation” or that could demean the victim of the hazing.
While many are applauding the strict measures, some in the FDNY feel that the hazing was mild and that the penalties were too steep.
“This is all bulls–t,” one insider said. “There’s a culture in the firehouse when you’re a new guy. Somebody’s feelings get hurt and all of a sudden it’s hazing.”
“Today hazing could be anything, a disparaging remark — being called a ‘Johnny,’” another agreed, referring to a slang term that firefighters use for inexperienced members.
The FDNY said that all seven firefighters accepted the discipline rather than face hearings that could lead to them being fired.