UPDATE from state spokesperson
: East End District Leader Ralph Ford has been fired from his $120,000 state position as behavioral health clinical director with the Greater Bridgeport Community Mental Health, according to a spokeswoman for the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Ford had been placed on administrative leave with pay for allegations centering on using a state facility to run a private mental health practice.
In an email statement to OIB on Friday, state spokesperson Mary Kate Mason wrote:
On May 27, 2014 a Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) employee working at the Southwest Connecticut Mental Health System received notification of dismissal from state service following an internal human resources investigation. On May 28, 2014 three employees working at the same facility also received notification of dismissal from state service following an internal human resources investigation. The reasons for dismissal included violations of DMHAS work rules, the Connecticut Code of Ethics and State Personnel Regulations. The individuals were performing private practice duties on state time with state resources. The individuals have the right to appeal the dismissal in accordance with union contracts and state personnel regulations.
The employees dismissed include:
Dr. Ralph Ford, dismissal effective June 11, 2014
Ms. Fiona Howard, dismissal effective June 11, 2014
Mr. Jason Spann, dismissal effective June 2, 2014
Mr. Manuel Rosales, dismissal effective May 30, 2014
As leader in the 139th District, Ford has deep roots and influence in city politics. Ford has an office on Broad Street Downtown.
*** IS ANYONE WHO REALLY KNOWS MR. FORD SURPRISED BY THE OVERALL INVESTIGATION, PROCEEDINGS AND OUTCOME? *** MORE TO FOLLOW? ***
How do you give someone two week’s notice you are firing them?
It’s done all the time. It’s called “putting someone on notice.”
If you read what Mary Kate Mason stated to the Post, this issue is far from being over. She said, “The investigation would determine whether violations occurred and would make recommendations regarding any possible disciplinary actions.” Nothing has been proven yet. Due process will be given to Mr. Ford.
Ron–Her statement was made in March. There won’t be a Ford in the state’s future.
I’m sure he’ll get exactly what he deserves. He will most likely keep his position on the town committee. Let’s give positive reinforcement for bad behavior. Will he be endorsing Moore or Musto? Ernie or Baker? These endorsements would be priceless, no? Time will tell.