Fishkill to reinstate demoted detectives

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By Kristine Coulter Staff Writer


FISHKILL – The Town of Fishkill and
Fishkill PBA reached a settlement to reinstate
two detectives who were demoted
earlier this year in response to the requirement
by Dutchess County Human
Resource Commission to come into compliance
with New York State Civil Service
law.

“I think the town went through a period
of time when proper procedure was not a
high priority,” said Fishkill Supervisor
Bob LaColla. “Departments are becoming
more professional.”

LaColla received a letter from the
Dutchess County Commissioner of
Human Resources earlier this year saying
the town must come into compliance with
CSL. LaColla became town supervisor in
January.

“It was fair and amicable,” said
Detective Frank Vidal, President of the
Town of Fishkill Police Department
P.B.A. (Police Benevolent Association)
said of the arbitration settlement. “I have
no issue with it. It was fine.”

LaColla said he hopes there will be less
of these incidents in the future.
He said it is time to work on the people’s
business.

The arbitration settlement regarding
Detectives Steve Gallo and Nicholas
D’Antonio guarantees them backpay,
their Detective badges and work hours.
The board voted unanimously to accept
the arbitration settlement.