Photo by Steve Neavling/Motor CIty Muckraker
Firefighters in Detroit have a problem. And it's not just faulty equipment.
Steve Neavling of Motor City Muckraker reports:
As the Detroit Fire Department sinks into a deeper funding crisis, placing more lives in danger, Mayor Mike Duggan’s administration is cracking the whip on firefighters who accept donations or speak to the media.
Firefighters were recently told they could be disciplined for blowing the whistle or taking donations, even though many of them are forced to work with malfunctioning rigs and equipment. Fire houses often lack proper plumbing, heating, mattresses and other bare necessities.
Memos were recently posted to remind firefighters about the ban on speaking with the media.
Neavling adds:
Mayor Duggan’s administration defended the crackdown, saying the rules have been in place for a long time. Commissioner Jenkins said the department still encourages donations to the Fire Department, but only through the Detroit Public Safety Foundation.
