New boss takes the helm at Charlotte Fire Department

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The interim fire chief for the Charlotte Fire Department was sworn in Thursday morning.

Interim Chief Pete Key, a 40-year veteran of the department, is taking over after the retirement of former fire Chief Jon Hannan.

Key said he is excited to take on the new role and continuing to work at the department.

“I look at myself as a tough guy, but a lot of people saw my soft side today. I love the guys, the guys love me. We’ve got a common theme in regards to serving the public,” Key said.

Key told Channel 9 earlier this month that he’s concerned about the department’s image and is walking into the new position facing several challenges including a lack of diversity.

We obtained anonymous letters complaining that women and minorities were not being promoted fairly.

Crystal Eschert, a former employee who accused the department of retaliation, won a civil lawsuit against the city.

A jury awarded Eschert a $1.5 million judgment.

Shortly after, Hannan announced he was retiring effective Aug. 31.

Key said his first priority will be to analyze the department’s problems.

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