Local Fire Chief Faces Off with Legislator Over Immigrant Issues

In a tense encounter, the fire chief of Long Island’s largest Latino community confronted local lawmakers, urging his staff to “call the ice.”

Democrat state legislator Phil Ramos triggered a standoff last week after Brentwood firefighters accused the federal government of backing an immigrant raid in the area.

Ramos later described an incident where Chief Bryant Figueroa allegedly trespassed into his office, trying to intimidate staff who were not authorized to be there.

According to Ramos, Figueroa ignored multiple requests to stay out of certain areas and forced his way into his office. “When I told him to leave and reiterated he wasn’t allowed there, he said, ‘Then call the police. Call ICE,’” Ramos recounted.

Figueroa allegedly entered the office and dropped an envelope on the desk that included notices about departmental matters, such as removing his honorary title and taking his name down from the wall at the East Brentwood Firehouse in Suffolk County.

In a letter, the chief expressed disappointment, stating that instead of standing together during tough times, Ramos’ comments and actions had harmed trust and the safety of those who serve without political motives.

The letter emphasized the need for community leaders to unite during crises rather than assign blame.

The Brentwood Fire Department has not commented on the incident involving Ramos. Previously, the department denied any involvement with ICE activities in the area, despite recent footage showing masked agents and unmarked vehicles around the fire service.

Ramos expressed skepticism about the fire department’s denials, claiming leaders like Figueroa effectively gave ICE permission to operate unchecked. Just days before this confrontation, Ramos had led a protest outside the fire department about the presence of ICE.

A former police officer who previously sued his department over civil rights issues, Ramos accused the fire department’s leadership of failing to connect with the diverse communities they serve. He believes Figueroa’s actions stem from personal retaliation for professional disagreements.

Ramos is now calling for accountability, insisting that his fight is far from over. “I am not threatened or silenced,” he declared, “and our community will not stand for Gestapo-like tactics. I will continue advocating for justice and our rights.”