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Former Highwood Deputy Fire Chief on trial
There has been a long-standing investigation and suspension of the former deputy chief of the Highwood Fire Department. A 2013 article about the matter is available here. The case has recently resurfaced as a trial has commenced, with several new reports covering the developments.
Excerpts from the Chicago Tribune:
Lake County prosecutor Scott Turk described Ronald Pieri, the former deputy fire chief, as a “disgruntled employee†who wanted to work a standard 9-to-5 schedule. In his opening statement during the trial, Turk claimed that Pieri falsified time records to claim extra pay for hours he could have worked during his regular shifts. According to the state, Pieri's actions cost taxpayers approximately $58,676 in lost wages and benefits.
Pieri’s defense team, however, argues that the state’s evidence is unreliable. They pointed out that three different sets of calculations were made regarding how Pieri should have been paid, suggesting inconsistencies in the data. Defense attorney Julie Trewarthen stated that the state’s case relies on flawed and unreliable information.
The trial, which was delayed for four years, began Monday before Lake County Circuit Court Judge Victoria Rossetti after Pieri waived his right to a jury trial. He was charged in 2011 with falsifying time records between 2006 and 2010. At the time of his arrest, Pieri was the highest-ranking member of the department and was married to a sitting alderwoman and the son of a former alderman.
The only witness to testify on Monday was Thomas Lovejoy, the former fire chief. He confirmed that Pieri submitted time sheets without approval, which was not unusual. Lovejoy also revealed that Pieri received a 20% raise and became an exempt employee in 2007, meaning he no longer qualified for overtime pay.
Despite the state dropping the most serious theft charge, Pieri still faces potential prison time and loss of his firefighter pension if convicted of felony charges. The city placed him on administrative leave in 2011, and he continued to receive his salary until 2013, when a formal complaint led to his unpaid suspension.
More testimony followed on Tuesday, with colleagues and other witnesses providing accounts of Pieri’s work habits. On Thursday, an economist testified that the numbers used by the prosecution changed significantly over time, raising doubts about their reliability.
The trial continues, with both sides presenting arguments and evidence. As the case unfolds, it remains a focal point for local media and residents, highlighting concerns about accountability and transparency in public service.