The Rye Fire Protection District chief is headed into retirement amid a probe that he responded to hundreds of EMS calls while is state paramedic license was expired.
Records obtained by KKTV showed Fire Chief Steven Bennett provided medical care including intubations, started IVs and administered medications after his certification had lapsed.
His son, Reese, a RFPD lieutenant, also responded and treated patients while his EMT was expired. Officials at the state's department of public health and environment have placed him on probation amid a probe.
The chief, who has been with the department form 25 years, has been at the helm for the past 13. His last working day will be March 31.
“It has been an honor to serve the Rye community and work alongside such a dedicated team of first responders. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and the residents we serve. While I look forward to retirement, I will always hold this department and community close to my heart," Bennett wrote in a release.
PFPD officials lauded Bennett for his leadership during his tenure, crediting him with enhancing training, equipment and emergency responses.
