A Utica firefighter is being investigated for possible sexual harassment after he allegedly masturbated in to a spare pair of pants belonging to a female colleague.
According to a report published by the television station WKTV Channel 2, a female firefighter had gone on a call between and when she returned, she found the pants soiled with bodily fluids on her bed as she was preparing to leave her shift on Jan. 6.
No charges were filed, but the Oneida County attorney asked a Utica firefighter for a DNA sample. The station reported the request for the DNA sample is being contested and awaits a ruling from the Oneida County Court. The ruling is expected to be made by Friday. During a hearing on whether to make the firefighter submit a DNA sample, his defense lawyer argued the doors could have been left unlocked overnight. Each witness testified, however, that they believed the building was secured when they turned in for bed.
The only official to have commented publically about the report is the city’s mayor, Robert Palmieri.
Palmieri said: “Given the significance of sexual harassment, it is imperative the public is aware of the facts. On January 6th, a female firefighter made the city aware of possible sexual harassment within the Utica Fire Department. Once I was made aware of the situation, I immediately directed the Utica Police Department to conduct a full investigation, which is still ongoing and being criminally prosecuted by the Oneida County District Attorney’s office.”
He continued to say: “In respect for the judicial process and to ensure the city protects the integrity of the District Attorney’s case, this will be the city’s only comment until this matter is completed. It is important the public fully understands the City of Utica, and my administration, have zero tolerance for sexual harassment. We take all allegations of sexual harassment seriously by thorough investigation, discipline and when appropriate, referral to law enforcement.”
