A longtime Newtown Police Department member has been terminated by the town’s Police Commission based on disability.  51-year old Lt Aaron Bahamonde, who also served as the Department's spokesman and was one of the first to respond to Sandy Hook School on 12/14, had been on the force for 32 years. 

He said in a statement that it was unfortunate he was denied contractual sick time benefits for his disability, which occurred while out on medical leave. 

Union Attorney Eric Brown told Hearst Connecticut Media that the union had filed a grievance with the town “about whether or not he is eligible for disability insurance benefits” because Bahamonde is eligible for full retirement benefits. 

The closed door discussion came during the Police Commission's meeting last Wednesday.  After the 90-minute executive session, members returned to the public forum and voted unanimously to terminate the employee immediately.  A written decision is expected soon.