State Police Pilot Whistleblower Appealing Firing (warned weeks before deadly crash)

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.abc2news.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=88281747-8dcc-441c-8be2-617c776415a0

Reported by: Brian Kuebler
Email: [e-mail]
Last Update: 11/10 3:56 pm

Maryland State Police Pilot Pete Peterson will appeal his firing late last Friday afternoon.

Peterson asked for whistleblower protection back in September after writing a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation calling attention to maintenance problems and saferty issues within the Maryland State Police Aviation Command. Just weeks later, Trooper 2 crashed near Andres Airforce Base killing four of the five people on board. MSP fired Peterson last week after authorities said he did not release his proof so the agency could correct the problems.

Peterson's union AFSCME says it will appeal the firing and released the statement below.


November 10, 2008

Re: Statement by Patrick Moran, Director AFSCME Maryland on the recent firing of Mr. Pete Peterson:

As a Medevac Pilot with the Maryland State Police, Pete Peterson has been a dedicated pilot and an advocate for safety in the Aviation Command. He has a long standing record of service and is highly regarded for his dedication to the citizens of Maryland.

His firing by the Commander of the Aviation Command is currently under appeal. AFSCME Maryland is confident that Mr. Peterson will be afforded due process in this matter. We will do everything within our ability to assure that Mr. Peterson's record and dedication will be addressed and recognized in upcoming hearings.

As always, AFSCME Maryland stands firm in our commitment to safety. Our union will continue to advocate for rigorous safety standards and regulations throughout state government.

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) is the largest public sector union with 1.4 million members who provide the vital services that make America happen and advocate for prosperity and opportunity for all working families.