Waukesha Fire Chief facing charges alleging misconduct on the job

Waukesha Fire Chief facing charges of misconduct on the job

Waukesha Fire Chief facing charges of misconduct on the job

WAUKESHA (WITI) -- Waukesha's Fire Chief Jesse Alba is facing formal charges, alleging misconduct on the job. Neither the city nor Alba will say what these allegations entail, but Alba's attorney says his client plans to fight these charges and keep his job.

Alba was promoted to serve as Waukesha's fire chief after an exhaustive, months-long search to find the perfect candidate for the job back in May.  Days later, city leaders learned they may have picked the wrong man.

"Fire Department employees came forward and identified some potential violations to our HR department," Waukesha City Administrator Ed Henschel said.

Henschel says an independent, outside group was hired to investigate the claims.

"The chief was asked for his resignation. When he declined to offer it, the mayor then signed a complaint that has been forwarded to the Police and Fire Commission," Henschel said.

The Police and Fire Commission needs to wait 10 days before holding a hearing on the matter.

Meanwhile, FOX6 News has submitted an open records request for the complaint against Alba.

That will likely prompt a release of specific violations by July 31st.

Alba's attorney says he wont block the release of those documents.

Alba declined to comment on camera, but his attorney released this statement:

"Mr Alba provided truthful information to the investigator and city officials that discredit witness statements that are being used against him. Mr. Alba looks forward to a hearing where he can present this evidence to the Commission."

Alba's attorney maintains his client did nothing wrong and says there is no physical evidence to back up claims -- only statements.  Meanwhile, if city leaders have their way, another search for a new fire chief could begin within the next few months.

"Our goal is to make sure that all of our employees here are treated appropriately and that all of our management staff follows the rules of the city," Henschel said.

When the Police and Fire Commission meets, they will likely conduct their own investigation into these allegations.

Meanwhile, Alba remains on the job.