Coppergate defendant: Nobody said I couldn’t take pipes

If the case goes to trial, Sottile and Salzmann could be called to testify. If so, O’Connor said, Salzmann would likely face questions about the circumstances of his retirement from the fire department. Salzmann retired earlier this year rather than face disciplinary action called for by Mayor Shayne Gallo. Gallo has declined to discuss specific allegations, except to say that they involved the former chief’s “time and attendance.” The case has been referred to District Attorney Holley Carnright and the New York State Comptroller’s Office has begun an audit of the entire department.

“Everything out there is fair game,” said O’Connor. “You could ask a question that goes to [Salzmann’s] credibility.”