The city of Fort Worth cannot hire a new chief for at least 14 days thanks to a temporary restraining order granted Friday during a hearing on behalf of fired chief Joel Fitzgerald.
Friday afternoon a judge granted the TRO requested by Fitzgerald's attorneys that delays the city's ability to bring on board a permanent chief until his case can be publicly heard.
Fitzgerald's lawyer argues his termination violated the city charter and that a new hire should be delayed as his client makes his case for reinstatement.
Fitzgerald, who contends he was fired in May because he discovered the city fabricated compliance with federal regulations and that there was no evidence of any misconduct, said he wants a public hearing.
The city, in a statement after his termination, said he showed an "increasing lack of good judgment." The city said they plan to vigorously defend the claims made by Fitzgerald.
The temporary injunction hearing has been set for Aug. 1. where a judge will decide if the TRO is to be extended or if the hearing requested by Fitzgerald will be public.
