Buena Vista Fire Chief Butch
Lawhorn has been placed on administrative leave after recent allegations of
fraud were raised regarding Lawhorn’s certification from Rescue 3 International
to teach swift water courses to firefighters.
Rescue 3 International
officials told investigators that Lawhorn had taken swift water classes but was
not certified and could not charge for training others in swift water rescue.
During a recent search of
Lawhorn’s residence and the Buena Vista firehouse, investigators removed several
items, including computers and a cell phone.
The investigation started following
a complaint from members of the Glasgow Fire Department to the Rockbridge
County Commonwealth’s Attorney Bucky Joyce.
