Camden Firefighter Layoffs

CAMDEN, N.J. - Some firefighters turned in their helmets and police officers their badges Tuesday as part of deep municipal layoffs destined to further erode the quality of life in Camden, already one of the nation's most impoverished and crime-ridden cities.

About 335 workers, representing one-sixth of the local government work force, lost their jobs, according to Mayor Dana Redd. It was worst in the public safety departments, where nearly half the police force and close to one-third of the city's firefighters were laid off.

Laid-off firefighters walked eight blocks together from the police union hall to Fire Department headquarters, snaking past City Hall, then lined up their helmets in front of the building, picked them back up and started to turn them in along with their other gear.

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Comment by Michael Perez on January 19, 2011 at 5:55pm: I really feel for you guy's it doesn't seem right but the way the economy is all over it's a price that we pay which I hope doesn't end up costing someone's life which is a very big concern when that many fireman n police officers lose their job's.We can only hope the economy take's a turn upwards soon before any serious consequence's happen.Hope for the best.

Comment by Steve on January 19, 2011 at 4:24pm: Our Union Brothers are trying there best. The cities are after our pensions too....
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Comment by Allen M Rickett on January 18, 2011 at 5:16pm: The worst part is if they have a multi alarm fire and lose a couple lives, city hall will blame slow response times and poor coverage on the fire dept. Its a crying shame!

Comment by Jeremey Henries on January 18, 2011 at 4:31pm: I guess the city of Camden sees money as more important then the lives of their community!!!!