Seven fire department cadets resign after city says they cheated on EMT exam

WATERBURY, CT (WFSB) - The City of Waterbury confirmed that seven fire department cadets resigned after it was revealed that they cheated on an EMT exam.

Mayor Paul Pernerewski said the exam, which is administered through a local ambulance company, is a required component of firefighter training.

“It is very disappointing that this situation occurred,” Pernerewski said. “Firefighters are held to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism, and honesty is a fundamental part of serving our community.”

They mayor said 13 cadets were enrolled in the training program.

Following an internal review conducted by the fire department and the city’s human resources department, seven cadets were cleared of any wrongdoing and have since been sworn in as probationary firefighters.

The seven cadets who were found to have violated exam protocols resigned before the disciplinary process was completed, which closed the matter.

“While this is not the type of conduct we expect from our recruits, I am grateful that the fire department and human resources department quickly investigated the matter and took the appropriate steps to ensure accountability,” Pernerewski said. “The remaining cadets who met all requirements are now serving Waterbury honorably as probationary firefighters.”