Massachusetts Town Faces Hearing over Trump Flag Dispute and Administrator’s Potential Termination
Background
On Monday, the town of West Boylston, Massachusetts, will hold a hearing to determine the fate of its administrator, James Ryan. The hearing stems from a dispute between Ryan and the local police department over a Trump flag that was displayed in the department’s private gym.
Dispute over Trump Flag
In January, Police Chief Dennis Minnich was giving a tour of the department when Ryan noticed a Trump flag hanging in the gym. Ryan reportedly ordered Minnich to remove the flag the next day, arguing that it violated civil rights.
Minnich refused, stating that removing the flag would be illegal and that he believed it was wrong for Ryan to demand its removal. He has since filed a complaint against Ryan.
Allegations and Counterarguments
According to FOX 25 Boston, Ryan discreetly sent an employee to the police department after hours to check if the flag had been removed. The employee discovered that a new Trump flag had replaced the old one.
Minnich took both flags down but has alleged that Ryan lied to him and questioned his integrity. He has also expressed a lack of trust in Ryan and has stated that he will not report to Ryan when he returns to work.
Ryan’s attorney, John Clifford, has denied the allegations and stated that the Select Board has decided to terminate Ryan based solely on Minnich’s claims. Clifford has criticized Minnich for turning the matter into a political circus and has accused him of not understanding due process.
Alleged Violations
Ryan has argued that displaying the Trump flag in the public police station violates the rights of those who do not support the former president. He has also stated that the flag created a hostile work environment for officers who do not support Trump.
Minnich, on the other hand, has maintained that the flag is a symbol of free speech that should be protected. He has also argued that Ryan’s actions violated his rights.
Monday’s Hearing
The hearing on Monday will determine whether Ryan will be terminated. The Select Board is expected to hear testimony from both parties and will then make a decision.
Clifford has stated that Minnich has declined to be present at the hearing and that he has refused to meet privately with Ryan.
Impact on Town
The dispute over the Trump flag and Ryan’s potential termination has divided the town of West Boylston. Some residents have expressed support for Ryan, while others have supported the Select Board’s decision to hold the hearing.
The outcome of the hearing could have a significant impact on the town, as it will determine the future of the administrator and the relationship between the police department and the town government.
