Deputies dispatched to fire dispute

Cannon County Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to the intersection of John Bragg Highway and Hollis Creek Road on Aug. 13 to assist the fire department with an alleged unruly property owner.

Upon arrival deputies was approached by Woodbury Fire Chief Robert DeWinter and Billy Choate. Choate stated Chief DeWinter had a attitude with him and was speaking to him in a very derogatory tone of voice. Choate also asked why the fire department was there and was advised someone had called in the fire and they responded to put it out.

Choate stated he had not been monitoring the fire and was advised an unattended fire is dangerous and that he was responsible for it and the fire department was obligated to extinguish it due to no one being around to watch it.

Chief DeWinter advised deputies he was trying to get information for his report and Choate was being uncooperative and wouldn't tell him anything. Other fire fighters on the scene stated Choate was following them around and yelling at them while they attempted to put the fire out.

After the fire was put out all fire units went back into service and everyone cleared the scene.