Springfield trustees call for investigation of fire chief

NEW SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Township trustees have appointed a local man to investigate Township Fire Chief Brian Hughes and “prepare necessary charges” against him that could result in Hughes’ removal.

The action follows filing of a misdemeanor charge against Hughes last week in Mahoning County Area Court in Canfield.

Hughes was arraigned Feb. 8 in connection with using the 911 telephone system for a purpose other than obtaining emergency service. Hughes is accused of engineering a fake 911 call to cover up a prearranged barn fire.

At their meeting today, trustees unanimously voted to appoint township resident John Emrich to conduct the investigation.

For the complete story, see Friday's Vindicator and Vindy.com.