News 12 at 6 o'clock, Tuesday, February 7, 2012

AUGUSTA, GA -- An Augusta fire inspector is off the job after being accused of stealing fees payed by local businesses. Augusta Fire Chief Christopher James is talking Only to 12 about the investigation.

"Taking money from taxpayers is not tolerated at all," said Fire Chief Chris James.

Chief James is speaking out one day after the city releases a formal statement. The statement revealed the voluntary resignation of a fire inspector accused of stealing fees.

"To see an employee or to be in this situation doesn't make you feel good," said Chief James.

Lt. Liston M. Harris is a 30 year veteran of the fire department.

"I don't think it is far-reaching at all," said Chief James.

Sources tell News 12 losses are between $1,000 and $4,000 for fees ranging from $25 to $100.

"The citizens trust us," said Chief James."Anything that could jeopardize that trust will not be tolerated."

Chief James has a message for local businesses.

"There is no reason to be fearful of conducting business with the city," said Chief James. "When issues come up we will address them quickly."

We asked the chief about possible problems in the past.

"Whether inspectors have been exactly perfect in the past I'm not exactly sure," said Chief James.

The sheriff's office investigation is expected to reveal any other issues.

"Any misconduct needs to be stopped immediately and taken care of immediately," said Chief James.

Lt. Harris was put on administrative leave January 30th. He voluntarily resigned last Friday.

The Augusta Law department released the following statement:

Pursuant to allegations of professional misconduct, Fire Inspector Lt. Liston M. Harris was placed on administrative leave on January 30, 2012 pending an investigation. While the investigation was pending, Lt. Harris voluntarily resigned his position with the Augusta Fire Department effective February 3, 2012.

Subsequent to his resignation, this matter was forwarded to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Department for investigation and handling as appropriate. Any further information received by Augusta, Georgia regarding this matter will be forwarded to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Department or other appropriate authority.