The head of the city council's investigations committee has requested an independent probe of the events leading up to the suspension of a top Fire Department chief accused of abusive behavior.
Councilman Ritchie Torres, (D-Bronx), sent Department of Investigation Commissioner Margaret Garnett the request Tuesday, days after FDNY Chief of Department James Leonard was relieved of his command and put on desk duty. The suspension followed Daily News reports that Leonard had been accused of openly berating and humiliating subordinates, and tried to freeze out First Deputy Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, one of few women in the top ranks of the FDNY.
In announcing Leonard's suspension, the FDNY said the city's Law Department will be responsible for investigating his behavior. But Councilman Torres says the city charter dictates that DOI — which is considered a more independent watchdog — should handle these allegations.