Texas Rangers investigating Hawkins VFD funds after audit

By LINDA HERNANDEZ
Posted 8/24/16

The Texas Rangers have been called in after an audit of the funds in the Hawkins Volunteer Fire Department.

An investigation began after the appointment of the new fire chief, Van Garner, by the …

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Texas Rangers investigating Hawkins VFD funds after audit

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The Texas Rangers have been called in after an audit of the funds in the Hawkins Volunteer Fire Department.

An investigation began after the appointment of the new fire chief, Van Garner, by the Hawkins City Council on July 8. An audit report of the HVFD funds was recently done by the city auditor.

Afterwards, the Hawkins City Council felt the audit warranted an outside investigation, Mayor Howard Coquat said. The Hawkins Police Department was called, who in turn, helped the mayor contact the Texas Rangers on July 29.

The Texas Rangers asked the mayor to gather information for them, which Coquat said city hall has been doing for two weeks. The mayor said the city is now waiting on the Texas Rangers to let them know the next step the city needs to take regarding the situation.

At this time, there are four firefighters suspended from the Hawkins Fire Department until the investigation is over.

“Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the firefighters will have the option of returning to the HVFD. They may re-apply as a fireman to the HVFD, upon approval by the Hawkins City Council and HVFD fire chief,” stated the mayor. “We are hoping that the investigation will prove people are innocent, not guilty of anything.”

As an elected official, Coquat said, he is required to report any abnormal findings, should they arise. He is hoping that through this situation, the department will be more able to serve their fire district. “At this time, the HVFD situation is out of the hands of the City of Hawkins, and into the hands of the Texas Rangers,” said the Hawkins mayor.

Hawkins Fire Department’s newly-appointed Fire Chief Van Garner is emphasizing education, recruitment, training of new volunteers, and fire safety, as well as community support and involvement. Garner said he is striving to make sure all financials and records are in order. He is purchasing new bunker and wildland gear and “moving forward with a positive outlook.”