Ex-firefighter sentenced to counseling for anger

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — A man who lost his job as a city firefighter when an arson charge was filed against him has been ordered to take anger management counseling.

Patrick George, 34, of Eden Lane, reached a plea agreement last month in municipal court, and the arson charge was dismissed. He pleaded no contest to criminal damaging.

Judge Robert A. Douglas Jr. sentenced George on Thursday to one year’s probation and ordered that he have an alcohol assessment and take anger management counseling. The judge also imposed a $250 fine.

George, one of three partners in a trash-container business, was accused last September of burning a computer owned by the business.

Before sentencing, George’s attorney, J. Gerald Ingram, told the judge that his client had been experiencing some personal problems and was abusing alcohol when the crime occurred. Ingram said George acted immaturely over a perceived business dispute, adding there was no excuse for his actions.

The lawyer said in court that George is still in business with his partners. George made no statement.

“It was a highly unfortunate situation,” Ingram said after court, declining further comment.

Fire Chief John J. ONeill Jr. fired George, an 11-year department veteran, in mid-October.

“You have tarnished the image of the Youngstown Fire Department by your actions on Sept. 26, and have destroyed the confidence that your co-workers and city leaders have in you to serve and protect our community,” the chief wrote to George.

George filed a grievance to be reinstated. O’Neill said Thursday that the grievance is still pending.

In December, George pleaded no contest in municipal court to a driving under the influence charge that was filed Oct. 30. He was fined $375, placed on one year’s probation and permitted to attend a three-day driver’s intervention program. His license is suspended until April 29, according to Vindicator files.