Jackson Free Press

Jackson Fire Chief Vernon Hughes announced he was demoting Assistant Chief Todd Chandler to captain status at a press conference today. Hughes re-assigned Chandler to the division of air supply, effective today, after the investigation of a 13-year-old video allegedly featuring Chandler and other white firemen mocking black recruits. Chandler, who has been with the fire department for more than 20 years, denied being the fireman in the video, though Hughes said he was convinced of Chandler's identification in the film.

In the video, which union members circulated to the press last month, Chandler allegedly mimics the new recruits, wearing his uniform askew, with his air tank hanging incorrectly on his chest instead of his back, while pretending to have difficulty getting a fire hose through a doorway. The man union members say is Chandler has a similar mustache, wears a jacket sporting the name "Chandler," and speaks in Chandler's distinctive voice. Other voices in the video refer to the man as "Todd."

The video also allegedly shows retired firefighter Ken Daniels giving a tour of Fire Station 12, while commenting that the station's complicated new computers may be beyond the intelligence of black recruits. "This is the only thing going to mess up the blacks on the fire department," the man alleged to be Daniels says in the video.

Local 87 Union spokesman Capt. Brandon Falcon said Hughes did the right thing in demoting Chandler, partly because Chandler was unwilling to own up to the video.

"The state of Mississippi is probably the most forgiving state in the union as far as race relations," Falcon said. "We keep forgiving these folks' behavior over and over again, and I see no difference with Todd Chandler. But for him to insult the intelligence of the working men and women of the Jackson Fire Department, I find the chief did the right thing."

Chandler's new position involves maintaining and storing air tanks that firefighters carry into flaming buildings. The role of captain over air supply is a step down for Chandler, who was interim fire chief for almost two years under Mayor Frank Melton. Melton appointed Chandler early in his administration, and kept him on in an interim capacity because a majority of the council—including Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes, who regularly sides with Melton—appeared unwilling to approve Chandler's nomination.

Melton submitted Chandler for confirmation earlier last year, and the council, unchanged in attitude, failed to confirm him. Melton at first vowed to keep Chandler on as an assistant chief, but earning a chief's salary; however, he eventually submitted Hughes' name as chief, and the council hastily approved him last July.

Hughes said he would immediately fill Chandler's old position, but offered no potential candidate to the press on Friday.

Council President Leslie McLemore, who voted down Chandler's confirmation last year, said Hughes made a "wise decision" in demoting Chandler.

"Mr. Chandler's presence on the command staff put undue pressure on the department," McLemore told the Jackson Free Press, adding that reports about Chandler's attitude toward blacks had been circulating throughout the department for years. "There were rumors that a tape like this was out there, and Hughes did the right thing in removing Mr. Chandler from the command staff."

Chandler did not return calls.

Previous Comments

ID

97986

Comment

Maggie, good job. I must point out however that I thought the group "Air Supply" had broken up or stopped recording years ago. I wonder if Hughes song their hit record, "All Out Of Love," to Chadler before relegating him from starving actor to an able member of "Air Supply?"

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2008-01-04T15:37:43-06:00

ID

97987

Comment

I think Adam actually wrote this article. Maggie just posted it.

Author

msgrits

Date

2008-01-04T15:39:56-06:00

ID

97988

Comment

Good job, Adam. Anyway, as the song says, "I'm all out of love, I'm so lost without you."

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2008-01-04T15:45:42-06:00

ID

97989

Comment

My sources are telling me that Chandler is refusing to talk to the media or Hughes further. However, he has contacted the mayor trying to get his old job back. The prtions of the letter given to us reads as follows: "It can't be too late to say I was wrong. I want to come back... Away from this long lonely night. I'm reaching for you. Are you feeling it too? Does the feeling seem oh so right? And what would you say if I called you now and say I can't hold on." This stuff is too mushy for me. I can't even print the rest of it. I hope Todd Chandler does better with Air Supply. I don't want to see any videos with him running around and saying stupid things such as "I can't play no guudtar boss." I hope he just goes there and does his job without any acting out of any sort.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2008-01-04T16:26:13-06:00

ID

97990

Comment

Congratulations on another great story on the fire department, Adam. Remember that Adam broke the first story about concerns over Chandler's history in the department. Chandler served as chief unconfirmed for more than a year even though it was clear that he could not be confirmed. This tape is part of why he could not serve as an effective chief.

Author

Brian C Johnson

Date

2008-01-04T16:47:20-06:00

ID

97991

Comment

WJTV is reprting that Chandler has to take race sensitivities or realations classes too. I wonder if they would let me and Kamikaze attend and help with the reconstruction or transformtion? Are you with me Kaze or has your new beginning rendered you unavailable.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2008-01-04T17:06:28-06:00

ID

97992

Comment

What a happy day for all you criticts. All I can say is that if they can punish Chandler for things that happened 14 years ago then we now have a new can of worms opened up. I am sure there are many things that were covered up over the years that will soon surface. Thanks for opening the door. Oh just for those in uniform speaking to the media today not to include Hughes. It is against department policy to do so. It is also against department policy to have the media at the fire stations also. Retirement is great. At least they can't come for me.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-04T18:11:55-06:00

ID

97993

Comment

Hughes didnt want Chandler on his Command staff anyway so hooray for Tank. Oh did he discuss to much of a personnel matter to the media. Not sure if he crossed the line or not. We will have to see.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-04T18:13:36-06:00

ID

97994

Comment

Let me state also that I did not condone the actions on the tape. I can say that there were a couple of borderline racists statements. But I do not think anyone can say that it could be proven in a court of law the the skit Chandler played out wak mocking blacks he could have been trying to act like a hillbilly who knows. I do believe they said on the tape though that they were mocking a fire incident as well as the Training Officer and Joe Donavan. I think an appology would have been the appropriate course of action and move on. But most on here are Chandler haters so it don't matter anyway. I hope FALCON gets whats comming to him since he is the savior of the race. Maybe he will get the Jessie Jackson medal of Honor

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-04T18:41:50-06:00

ID

97995

Comment

Hey Bango since you are retired you must not understand that union officials are exempt from JFD press regulations. Also any member of the JFD can exert their first amendment rights as citizens. We have fought this battle for years and won many times over. Just ask the Jackson Five CAPTAIN Chandler tried to fire for talking to the media in August 06.

Author

dawgdaddy

Date

2008-01-04T18:43:59-06:00

ID

97996

Comment

Damnit, Ray. You beat me with the Air Supply lyrics, farthead. I thought I was going to be hysterical and funny. I feel robbed. I cannot begin to explain to you how much I love the fact that the Fire Department has a Department of Air Supply. Does everyone have winged hair? Are their pants too tight? Are they all Australian? I can say is that if they can punish Chandler for things that happened 14 years ago then we now have a new can of worms opened up. Bango-I just have to say this....Didn't Chandler get the memo? You know, "The Memo." The same memo that states you shouldn't take naked pictures, or open your legs in public if you aren't wearing panties, or put yourself on tape making extremely racist statements while serving in an public position. THAT MEMO. Because when you do something obviously offensive on tape it doesn't MATTER if it was fourteen years ago-or fourteen days ago. The wonderful thing about tape is that it makes everything seem like it happened just yesterday. I'll be busy printing out copies of That Memo and sending them to the rest of Jackson's public officials. I'm pretty certain Frank hasn't received it either.

Author

Lori G

Date

2008-01-04T18:45:54-06:00

ID

97997

Comment

Why does every Chandler defender always attack Falcon. IMO he exposed what needed to be exposed. Why not address the issue not shift it to someone else that is purely a messenger. If Falcon had the tape he would have supplied it when Chandler was exercising his might on Falcon.

Author

dawgdaddy

Date

2008-01-04T18:47:44-06:00

ID

97998

Comment

The moron in the tape was clearly not portraying a hillbilly, not unless hillbillies walk around with fire department helmets carrying the name "Sambo" on the back of 'em. This was clearly a blackface minstrel act. It was repugnant, and while it happened several years ago, the denials came in the past month. If you did it, Chandler, at least you shoulda been man enough to stand up and admit you did it. This behavior shows not only prejudice, but cowardice, and that kind of character should not be in a leadership position.

Author

footsy

Date

2008-01-04T20:50:10-06:00

ID

97999

Comment

Lori, not only did Bango not GET the memo, he still doesn't get IT! Apparently, he thinks the rebel flag is not offensive, especially coupled with that Steppinfetchit routine Chandler starred in. I can hear him now, saying the flag*is our heritage*. As for opening the can of worms...let's do it!

Author

Kacy

Date

2008-01-04T20:56:48-06:00

ID

98000

Comment

Bango is an old bigot and iam sure Mississippi still have millions of bigots like him hiding behind computers stratching his fat butt.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2008-01-04T21:27:38-06:00

ID

98001

Comment

Well once again I will show me where in writing that anything that the role Chandler was adledgley playing would be considered racists. Maybe inappropriate. And as far as all the perfect ones posting in here I am sure you have skeletons in your closet. And Kacy I agree the rebel flag may be offensive to some but it is not illegall. There are many things in life that are offensive but that does not make those objects racists. I think when some one belches while eating is offensive but its their right. Remember the Freedom of speech that applies to all aspects of life not just the ones you choose.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-04T21:55:26-06:00

ID

98002

Comment

Dawgdaddy can you post the memo that states Union Officals are exempt from JFD press rules. Espically having the media at the fire station while on duty. Or being an ex official in uniform speaking out. What ever it dont matter any way because Hughes got what he has wanted since getting the Chief Job. As far as Falcon he has been after Chandler from day one. It is totally personal. As union president all Falcon did was go after Chandler he did nothing at all for the membership. If he did we missed it. Nothing like a Union brother attacking another union brother.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-04T22:03:29-06:00

ID

98003

Comment

If we are to punish someone for something fourteen years ago and ignore the thieves, liars and criminals being supported by the City of Jackson and the Jackson Fire Department by taxpayers the taxpayers dollars then we need to get rid of these bogus politician and liars like Marshand Crislers. Todd Chandler was Marshand Crisler best friend when Todd Chandler and his family endorsed him for City Council and work in his campaign. Todd Chandler was not a racist when became a member of the SCLC and support fund raiser for the NAACP. He was not a racist when he worked in Harvey Johnson campaign, Bennie Thompson Campaign, Frank Melton Campaign, plus many other political campaigns where he publicly supported African American candidates publicly. The lies against Todd Chandler was well organized and has done the damage it was plan by members of the Jackson Fire Department and the Jackson City Council. When will we learn to work together and stop living in the damn past if we will ar e to survive as a community? I guess when it come to Freedom of Speech only certain people are punished while the liars are protected and promoted.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-04T22:12:41-06:00

ID

98004

Comment

Bango, He pointed to a computer and said that it was going to mess black recruits up. How else is that to be interpreted? Cause if you can explain that away. Well you can't but I'd love to hear you try. It could provide me hours of entertainment.

Author

msgrits

Date

2008-01-04T22:16:37-06:00

ID

98005

Comment

One would think that if he/she were to change their name from "Tango," they might not choose the name "Bango." Some things never cease to amaze me.

Author

MAllen

Date

2008-01-04T22:33:03-06:00

ID

98006

Comment

Bango allow me to adjust your propaganda to reflect the truth. I do not recall Falcon going after Chandler just defending himself against the ex union officials who sold out to the Melton campaign for receiving positions for their support. Chandler if he was a man of integrity would not have someone like union officials they would have no ammo, but leave it to the sell outs (ex union officials that sold out to Melton) to leave a trail of union documents and video evidence to bring credibility to the cause that Jackson is better off without ignorance in charge. As far as your other allegations I agree about the lawn mower incident. I don't think its up to the fire chief who gets prosecuted for any criminal act. As far as the residency rule I do believe city employees can live within 40 miles of city hall and if its the one I think you are talking about he is as legal as Melton who owns more than one residence himself.

Author

dawgdaddy

Date

2008-01-04T22:59:23-06:00

ID

98007

Comment

Todd Chandler was not a racist when became a member of the SCLC and support fund raiser for the NAACP. He was not a racist when he worked in Harvey Johnson campaign, Bennie Thompson Campaign, Frank Melton Campaign, plus many other political campaigns where he publicly supported African American candidates publicly. That's all fine and dandy, but just like the ubiquitous "Some of my best friends are black" arguments, doing things for and with black people doesn't justify Chandler's actions. I'm not going to say point blank that Chandler is a racist (I don't know the man and thus, I can't make that call), but what he did is a clear demonstration how someone can laugh in your face and show others what they really think about you behind your back.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2008-01-04T23:00:03-06:00

ID

98008

Comment

Chandler if he was a man of integrity would not have someone like union officials they would have no ammo, but leave it to the sell outs (ex union officials that sold out to Melton) to leave a trail of union documents and video evidence to bring credibility to the cause that Jackson is better off without ignorance in charge. Sorry meant to sound more like this:(don't know what I was thinking) If Chandler was a man of integrity there would be no ammo against him.(the past three union presidents before Falcon all accepted paid administrative positions on the Melton staff). Falcon who criticized this move was met with the ire of Chandler, Melton, and such.

Author

dawgdaddy

Date

2008-01-04T23:07:39-06:00

ID

98009

Comment

Remember the Freedom of speech that applies to all aspects of life not just the ones you choose. No one is arguing against that. However, what we say, especially in a public forum, do have repercussions and consequences. If I say something on this board that is false and is potentially damaging to one's reputation, that person could sue me and he or she wins the case, there isn't a damn thing the First Amendment can do to protect me. The only thing the First Amendment does is to protect all Americans from being arrested for what they say. Yes, Chandler had the right to express whatever he pleased on the videotape, but he's paying a heavy price for his actions.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2008-01-04T23:15:48-06:00

ID

98010

Comment

The lies against Todd Chandler was well organized and has done the damage it was plan by members of the Jackson Fire Department and the Jackson City Council. When will we learn to work together and stop living in the damn past if we will ar e to survive as a community? I guess when it come to Freedom of Speech only certain people are punished while the liars are protected and promoted. I don't understand this statement at all. What lies, the only one I see lying is Chandler saying someone took my gear and framed me. Give me a break what he is really saying is that I thought you were stupid then and I continue to think that by making that statement. As far as freedom of speech I do remember Chandler trying to fire Falcon for exercising this right. Finally Chandler is the only liar that was promoted and protected by Melton.

Author

dawgdaddy

Date

2008-01-04T23:17:43-06:00

ID

98011

Comment

Chandler made those statements before he even saw the video. When WJTV was at his house on 12/24 they were playing the video for him and their battery went dead. They asked could they enter his home and use his video and he said no. So when he made those statements he never saw the part with himself in there. Ask the reporter. And the Falcon deal was he was trying to get another union brother the Fire Chief job by playing Back Door politics which exploded in their face.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-05T08:00:55-06:00

ID

98012

Comment

MSGRITS That was not Chandler that pointed to the computer and made the ramark. That was Ken Daniel who is no longer with the department. Who was behind the Camera we will never know. That video was shot in several stages.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-05T08:02:45-06:00

ID

98013

Comment

Well I'm off to the woods hope to catch up with the replies tonite. It amazes me what some can see from the outside looking in.

Author

Bango

Date

2008-01-05T08:17:19-06:00

ID

98014

Comment

Bango, you seem to have a lot of information about what you determine to be past unpunished indescretions. You also said that you were retired and enjoying it. If you are enjoying your retirement why are you so angry and still trying to defend Chandler? You remind me of another former assistant chief who fell from grace and was forced to retire. IMO you and that other idiot are one in the same. You may even have been the one who submitted the tape in order to precipretate Chandler's downfall. You know the old saying "Misery loves company". Why don't you just sit back and enjoy your days of being out of the rat-race and let Chandler feel the same things that the other firemen felt when he demoted them. At least Chandler was demoted for something stupid that he did. It does not matter how long ago it was, my only question is were there other tapes out there that he is going to deny also?

Author

rufus

Date

2008-01-05T08:41:29-06:00

ID

98015

Comment

Bango, you are posting unconfirmed or substantiated e-mails on the Web site (which I have reason to believe that you wrote). Those posts are being deleted, and your account suspended. Enjoy the woods.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2008-01-05T09:16:40-06:00

ID

98016

Comment

Bango is incorrect again... Chandler sat in front of Chief Hughes after watching the video and adamantly denied his presence in the video. Which ultimately led to his demise. I don't remember Falcon during that time saying put someone else as chief. I remember him saying put people on fire trucks so firefighters can do their jobs. How credulous are you Bango?

Author

dawgdaddy

Date

2008-01-05T10:37:31-06:00

ID

98017

Comment

I'm wondering who turned the tape in and why. THAT should be the real story.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2008-01-05T11:00:24-06:00

ID

98018

Comment

What's the point of lying about the video when it's so clear that it's you. He should have just admitted it, explained why he did it, apologized and said and showed how he has grown since then. He handled the opportunity to show great season, discipline and maturity incorrectly, which likely means he's still in denial about his disease of racism or prejudice. The J.R. Ewings act of who you're going to believe me or your lying eyes didn't work for Chandler. It doesn't work for anybody I don't think.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2008-01-05T12:33:56-06:00

ID

98019

Comment

if anybody on here got caught doing something, then lied to their boss's face about it like he was an idiot, they probably would have been FIRED, not demoted. apparently, chandler didn't think chief hughes was "smart enough" to see through that bs. it's his own fault. had he not insulted his boss's intelligence, he probably would only have been reprimanded, not demoted. he's lucky to still have a job! we should actually be applauding the city council for not confirming this idiot.

Author

eyerah

Date

2008-01-05T14:59:05-06:00

ID

98020

Comment

hi guys here is the deal , when falcon became union president in 2005 he was the 1st union president out of the last three who was no a sell-out , the last 3 before falcon sold out , hardaway went to work for the mayor for about 1.5 years , chandler promoted to acting chief, and davis to assistant chief . thats why they are so piss off @ falcon because he has a mind of his own and will not sell the union out for a higher position , i heard that guy a. j. brant spoke on t. v. and i can tell that he is a man of intregity and pride and speak the truth . its about time the union has some good quality leaders for a change, who will not kiss a-- for a bigger badge . and for that bango dude you must fought chandler fight against the blacks in the past and now you feel use

Author

uncle willie

Date

2008-01-05T15:10:59-06:00