New Fire Chief Placed Asked To Resign Amid Criminal Investigation

NEVADA – Sparks’ brand new fire chief was requested to resign on Monday after less than a week on the job due to criminal accusations.

Mark Lawson took over as fire chief at the end of November, succeeding Jim Reid.

City Manager Neil Krutz stated in a video broadcast to the fire department on Monday morning that the city learned late last week that severe criminal charges were set to be filed against Lawson. Krutz stated that the city did its full diligence to check the material and discovered it to be accurate.

On December 5, Krutz met with Lawson and requested him to resign immediately. In the video, Krutz says, “I know this comes as a surprise to everyone. I was overjoyed to welcome Chief Lawson aboard…” Because of the seriousness of the charges, the city manager felt it was prudent to separate ways immediately.

Lawson joined Sparks after working for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for more than three decades.

The Sparks City Council approved a contract with a salary of $200,000 per year through June 30, 2024.

Krutz concluded his video by saying it was unnerving and something he never expected to undertake in his career. It will take some time for the city to find out how to proceed with a successor.

Credits: Fox Reno