The investigation and preferring of charges is the initial step in processing disciplinary actions against members. Charges may originate because of the violations of any law, regulation, order, command or instruction governing the uniformed code. Charges may be preferred by one member against another, and in processing charges, the member instituting the charges shall be known as the "complainant." The member against whom the charges are preferred shall be known as the "respondent."
The Assistant Chief shall investigate all charges against members under the Assistant Chief's command. The results of investigations, including supporting statements of witnesses, in writing, shall be immediately forwarded after investigation, together with a report containing the conclusions and recommendations of the investigating officer as to the alleged charges to the Fire Chief, who shall either forward a copy of the report to the Mayor with recommendation for formal preparation of charges or, in the Chief's discretion, take other appropriate administrative action.
A. 
The Fire Chief may suspend from duty without pay, pending hearing and determination of charges for a period not to exceed 30 days, any member of the Fire Department for infraction of rules and regulations or department orders and instructions or for conduct to the prejudice of good order, efficiency or discipline of the Fire Department in accordance with applicable provisions of Article V of § 75 of the Civil Service Law of the State of New York and existing articles of the current contract.
B. 
Members suspended from duty shall not appear in uniform. They shall promptly return official badges, insignias and department property to the office of the Fire Chief. Such property shall be retained by the Fire Chief until suspension is revoked by the Chief or other lawful authority. Suspended members shall not report during the period of suspension, until and unless called by the Fire Chief, in which cases they shall not be considered to have worked and shall not be entitled to pay.
The service of charges, the conduct of trial and the imposition of punishment shall be in accordance with the appropriate rules and regulations contained in Article V, § 75, of the Civil Service Law of the State of New York and applicable sections of the existing contract.
Minor infractions shall be handled by the Fire Chief with a written reprimand.