State fires worker accused of making threats

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - A Connecticut state employee whose guns were seized after he allegedly made threatening comments to co-workers has been fired.

The Hartford Courant^[1] reports the state Department of Energy^[2] and Environmental Protection announced the firing of John Hirschfeld^[3] on Saturday.

Police in July seized several weapons from Hirschfeld^[4]’s West Hartford home, including an AR-15 rifle that under state law met the definition of a banned assault weapon. He was charged with possession of a banned rifle and magazines.

The seizure came after co-workers alleged Hirschfeld^[5] said things such as “you better watch out” while talking about his guns. He was placed on paid leave July 11.

Hirschfeld^[6] has pleaded not guilty to the charges and his lawyer has said Hirschfeld^[7] made no direct threats. He is due back in court Wednesday.

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