The Spec Ops Blog: Un-certified Virginia, USA, swift-water training instructor who issued forged Rescue 3 certifications to dozens of unknowing swift-water trainees over a 3 year period is jailed on 70-count indictment

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Un-certified Virginia, USA, swift-water training instructor who issued forged Rescue 3 certifications to dozens of unknowing swift-water trainees over a 3 year period is jailed on 70-count indictment

"BUENA VISTA, Va. -The former volunteer fire chief in Buena Vista is out on bond after an arrest Friday as part of a 77 count indictment.

Butch Lawhorn taught swift water rescue courses but investigators say he was never certified to teach those courses. Lawhorn is accused of faking certificates issued to volunteers from all over southwest Virginia and of taking thousands of dollars for the classes. Swift water rescue teams in Rockbridge County and beyond are in limbo, waiting to find out if they'll have to train all over again.

Last fall, WDBJ7 first reported Lawhorn was the focus of a State Police investigation. He lost his chief position around the same time. Troopers searched the fire station and his house...."

Learn more here.

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