IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UPDATE - -5/04/2009

The department continues to cooperate with the investigation into arson allegations that have been publicized recently.  In doing so, investigators were unimpeded in their execution of a sealed search warrant on the premises of the Riverdale Fire Department.

As this continues to be a law-enforcement related personnel matter, The Riverdale Fire Department, Inc. cannot comment on any details.  The department's members and officers continue to cooperate 100% with the investigation to ensure an expeditious and accurate resolution to these allegations.

We would also like to reassure the citizens of Riverdale Park and the surrounding communities of our commitment to delivering professional Fire/EMS services as expected.

The Department's original release of April 21, 2009 remains in full force.  Thank you for your concerns and cooperation.

Arson Investigation

Recent media reports regarding an ongoing arson investigation, that potentially involves alleged members of this department, may have contained some inaccuracies.  Due to the nature of the investigation, and considering it is a personnel matter, we are prohibited from disclosing any detailed information at this time.

The Riverdale Fire Department, Inc., its members and officers, have been cooperating 100% with investigators to ensure a prompt and accurate resolution to these allegations.  We appreciate the concerns citizens may have regarding these allegations.  We want to ensure the residents of Riverdale Park and the surrounding communities that conduct such as that being alleged is not acceptable or tolerated by the department and we will take every step necessary to continue to provide the professional Fire/EMS service you have come to expect.

As the investigation ensues and we are able to provide more clarifying information, we will provide the necessary updates on our website.  We thank you for not hastily drawing any conclusions based on incomplete information being reported by the local news media.

Sincerely,