Long View fire chief terminated over misconduct

LONG VIEW, N.C. — A Catawba County fire chief is no longer on the job following a recent investigation into his job performance.

A report obtained by Channel 9’s Dave Faherty cites “discourteous treatment of other employees” from Long View Fire Chief James Brinkley. The report also details examples of “detrimental personal conduct” as well as violations of work rules.

On August 21, Brinkley reportedly responded to a house fire, despite being on administrative leave. According to the report, Brinkley forced a door open looking for victims without any protective gear on.

Brinkley is also accused of refusing to perform his assigned duties.

He was terminated on Sept. 4.