WFSB Channel 3NAACP questions New London arrest, FD firing

NAACP questions New London arrest, FD firing

The Connecticut and New London branches of the NAACP are calling for a federal Justice Department investigation of a city police officer and questioning the firing of a black firefighter recruit.

The state chapter announced the moves Friday.

City resident Lance Goode filed a complaint with the state NAACP last week claiming Officer Roger Newton violated his rights by planting drugs on him just before his arrest. Goode gave the NAACP a video that he says shows Newton planting the drugs.

 Newton is on leave pending an internal investigation.

The NAACP also questioned the firing of black firefighter recruit Al Mayo, saying New London hasn't hired a black firefighter since 1978. Officials say Mayo was fired because of low test scores.

New London Mayor Daryl Finizio says the firing of the firefighter was based on disciplinary issues and low test scores. 

"I will always insure that we promote diversity. We will not put anyone in any position if I feel they are not fully qualified for the position,"  Finizio said. 

(Copyright 2012 WFSB. The Associated Press Contributed to this report. All Rights Reserved.