Eyewitness News has learned the deputy fire chief in Kissimmee has resigned over allegations of sexual harassment. Eyewitness News first reported last month the investigation into Deputy Chief Randy Walters. He was accused of groping a female firefighter.
The final report has revealed a second similar incident. Walters got a look at the city's findings Friday and then chose to resign before the fire chief could take any action.
The report not only confirms Walters did in fact sexually harass a subordinate, but also that he was involved in a similar incident with a different city employee months ago.
The most recent incident happened at the Firehouse Pub in Kissimmee on July 10. A group of firefighters was celebrating a co-worker's 30 years of service.
The results of the city's internal investigation reveal Walters crossed the line when he grabbed a female firefighter's rear end. Two other firefighters witnessed it. She said Walters also whispered in her ear that he wanted to have sex with her and even kissed her on the lips, though no one else saw the kiss or heard the sexual remarks.
The city's report states, "The acts demonstrated by Deputy Chief Walters are extreme and extend beyond the boundaries of acceptable behavior."
"You need to set an example for the people that work for you and with you every day," said Kissimmee Fire Chief Robert King, noting Walters role as a manager of the department. "I am disappointed in the behavior and the findings of the report"
Walters' wife is a deputy police chief who was there at the pub when the incident happened. In the city's report, she said her husband denied any wrongdoing.
The investigation uncovered another incident back in January in which it was believed Walters tried to kiss a female city event coordinator. Walters' wife met with that coordinator trying to find out what really happened.
Given "two instances where Walters violated city policy," he resigned. Chief King now plans to visit each station and talk with the ranks.
"Any chance you have to reinforce the type of behavior we do not condone and behavior that is disappointing and maybe harmful to the organization, you take that opportunity to talk to the people and reinforce what behavior you feel is only the appropriate behavior," King said.
Walters actually admitted he might have kissed the firefighter, but he couldn't recall since he'd been drinking. She was drinking, too. Still, Walters himself said he was okay to drive home and the city noted alcohol was no excuse anyway.
The chief has not yet decided on a permanent replacement for Walters.
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