DaytonDailyNews.com

Officials in a North Carolina town have changed their minds about hiring former Clearcreek Twp. fire chief Bernie Becker, who left the Warren County department clouded by claims of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior.

Becker was named the fire chief in Indian Beach, N.C., on Dec. 10, before news outlets in that area reported that Becker had faced controversy in Clearcreek Twp. On Wednesday, Dec. 17, Indian Beach Commissioners voted to cancel the appointment, said Indian Beach administrator Beverly Bigley.

Bigley declined to specify why Becker was removed from the position, calling it a personnel matter.

Becker retired from the Clearcreek Twp. position on June 5, and the investigation into allegations made by members of the International Association of Firefighters Local 4207 ended with his departure. The union head had accused Becker of "improper touching, inappropriate behavior, hostile work environment, abuse of power, lack of operational knowledge, skills and abilities during emergency incidents."

The complaint, filed in February, listed nine instances of alleged improper touching or inappropriate behavior.

In October, Becker filed a defamation lawsuit against the firefighters union in Warren County Common Pleas Court. That case remains open.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7389 or knagel@DaytonDailyNews.com.