Martinsville - A Martinsville firefighter was suspended for ordering pornographic movies while on duty. The 13 Investigates team uncovered the city-wide investigation last month.
Robert Strader ignited a fire storm last fall after ordering a dozen pornographic movies from the SPICE channel while on duty in the city's firehouse.
"Your actions have brought undue and undeserved jeering to your brothers in arms from other communities. This entire situation could have been avoided had you responded," said Mayor Shannon Buskirk, City of Martinsville.
Illicit titles totaling $277 were paid for with pop money from a special fund set up by the department. He watched all 12 in a week's time at the fire station, which also serves as a safe place for kids.
For months, Strader denied involvement resulting in department-wide lie detector tests.Now one member of the Board of Public Works says he deserves firing for immoral conduct and breach of discipline.
Instead, Strader received a 30-day suspension without pay and was ordered to issue a public apology and pay for the porn.
"Just a mistake," Strader said. "I understand the consequences. I appreciate the thought that this board and the Mayor has gave me in offering me a second chance."
The disciplinary action will cost firefighter Strader nearly $3,500 and a career ban from all local festivals and participation in the Safe House Program with Martinsville Schools.
"He got, I think, what he deserves," said Fire Chief Tim Fraker.
But the 2-1 board decision has members split on the outcome.
"I woke up dreaming about this. It's really tough. You worry about - you got to be fair to the citizens of Martinsville; you got to be fair to him," said Gordon Burgin, Board of Public Works.
"That means while everybody else is out busting their hump trying to put out a fire we got one guy that's sitting here watching insight video. That's why I wanted him fired," said David Barger, Board of Public Works.
Strader says he's not he only one who watched, but wouldn't elaborate. The city is now focusing on who purchased three wrestling shows for $34.95 each. Officials want that money paid back, too. Strader hopes time will help him regain the trust of his family and fellow firefighters.
Courtesy WTHR-TV
