OMAHA, Nebraska - An arbitrator has ruled Omaha Fire Union president Steve LeClair should get his job back with the Omaha Fire Department, nearly a year after an incident at an Omaha bar led to his firing.
Accused of punching a woman at a retirement party at "Tiger Tom's Pub" in November, 2018, LeClair was cited in February, and was fired after an internal city investigation. He was put on administrative leave while the investigation proceeded.
He issued a statement denying the accusation, but in June was sentenced to six months’ probation after pleading "no contest" to misdemeanor charges of assault and battery and disorderly conduct. The fire union has consistently backed LeClair during the controversy.
This statement was released by the Omaha Professional Fire Fighters Association:
"The leaders and members of Local 385 are pleased with the results of the arbitration, which has reinstated Steve LeClair as a fire fighter and will allow him to resume his career on the Omaha Fire Department and his nearly 18 years of service protecting the citizens of Omaha. The arbitration process worked exactly as it should for all city employees, providing a fair and unbiased result based on the evidence that was presented. Although the process has been long, tiresome and, at times, distracting, Local 385 has remained steadfast in our advocacy for the safe working conditions of our fire fighters as they protect the citizens of Omaha. We look forward to moving on from this unfortunate incident and continuing to provide excellent emergency services to the citizens of Omaha."