The day after Coventry police arrested two volunteer firefighters accused of having sexual relations with members of the junior firefighter program, the fire association is temporarily suspending the program for teens between 14 and 17 years old.
Police charged Joseph Michael Carilli, 55 of Coventry, the department’s training officer, with sexual assault in the second degree and risk of injury to a minor. Joe Fragoso, 35 of Coventry, a second lieutenant, was charged with second-degree sexual assault.
"As a family, CVFA (the Coventry Volunteer Fire Association) is greatly hurt by recent events, we remain committed to working hard to provide fire protection and emergency medical services to our community. We ask for your continued support for our crews in the field providing emergency services," a statement from the fire association says.
Police said their investigation revealed that Carilli and Fragoso had been having sexual relations with members of the CVFA Junior Firefighter program, where 14-to-17-year-old teens participate in training, emergency calls and public education.
The junior firefighting program is suspended so the fire department can review "related policies and procedures."
"These are difficult times for all involved. We appreciate your patience and continue to work diligently to service the Town's emergency services needs," the statement says.