Local
Rhome ends firefighter’s employment after arrest in child-exploitation investigation
Texas Department of Public Safety investigators arrested Rhome Fire Rescue firefighter Zackary Cooper at the city’s fire station on Oct. 15. The city terminated his employment after allegations of online solicitation of a minor and possession of child sexual abuse material were reported by the fire department.
A full-time Rhome Fire Rescue firefighter was arrested at the city’s fire station Thursday morning, Oct. 15, on allegations involving online solicitation of a minor and possession of child sexual abuse material, the department said.
The Texas Department of Public Safety arrested Zackary Cooper at about 7 a.m., according to a statement Rhome Fire Rescue released Friday. The City of Rhome subsequently terminated Cooper’s employment, and officials said he is no longer affiliated with the department.
The department said the case remains under active criminal investigation and declined to provide details about the allegations or the circumstances of the arrest. Officials asked the public not to speculate while investigators and the courts handle the case.
“Rhome Fire Rescue holds its personnel to high standards of professionalism, integrity, and public trust,” the department said, adding that it remains committed to serving the community and maintaining residents’ confidence.
The information released by the department does not detail any court proceedings or establish that Cooper is guilty. The allegations remain accusations as the investigation proceeds.