By Thomas J. Morgan
JOHNSTON, R.I. - A Johnston firefighter accused of marijuana cultivation told town officials that he couldn't appear at a hearing on the status of his employment.
So, on Friday afternoon the town solicitor, Police Chief Richard S. Tamburini and chief of staff Doug Jeffrey appeared on the firefighter's porch accompanied by media. The firefighter, David Lashus, declined to participate in the hearing.
Lashus has not reported to duty since he was injured in 2009, Jeffrey said. He has been charged with possession and cultivation of marijuana and other offenses.