FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Today, the State's Attorney for Prince George's County announced that Grand Jury indictments have been returned against two former members of the Riverdale Fire Department, Inc. on arson and other related charges.  The individuals were members at the time of the alleged activity, but were soon dismissed for unrelated reasons prior to our knowledge of the investigation.

The Riverdale Fire Department, as does every other volunteer department in Prince George's County, relies on the investigative arm of the PGF/EMSD to complete thorough background investigations on all applicants for volunteer membership.  It is unfortunate that while these persons were cleared, they later may have had presence of mind to partake in such alleged activity.  Through a cooperative effort between the department, it's members, the PGF/EMSD and other law enforcement agencies, these individuals now face 50+ years each of potential prison time. 

These indictments should in no way reflect on the sincere dedication that the majority of volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel put forth each and every day protecting life and property. The Riverdale Fire Department and the many other volunteer departments continue to provide a professional and competent volunteer force answering the majority of fire and EMS service calls during nights, weekends, and holidays due to the County's budgetary constraints.  We wish to reinforce our committment to the Town of Riverdale Park and the surrounding communities.  The department stands steadfast against any such activity.

We can only apologize to the communnity for the alleged actions of these individuals and ask that you not prejudge all volunteers on the basis of these indictments.  As in any profession, there are those that stray, and they will be called to answer. Thank you to all of those who have supported the department and it's members through this ongoing investigation.  We sincerely appreciate it, and stand true to our motto: Always Ready To Serve.

THIS IS THE ONLY STATEMENT, PUBLIC OR PRIVATE, THAT THE DEPARTMENT WILL ISSUE ON THIS MATTER.