The Associated Press
NEW YORK — The son of New York City’s fire commissioner has apologized for posting offensive messages on Twitter.
The 23-year-old Joseph Cassano works as a fire department EMT.
The New York Post says he tweeted a slew of derogatory statements about Jews, blacks and the poor.
Cassano issued a statement early Monday saying he regretted “posting some comments that were offensive, especially since I enjoy my job and treat every patient with great care and respect.”
His father, Salvatore Cassano, declined to comment.
The Post says the younger Cassano’s offensive statements included a derogatory term to describe blacks, and a tweet stating he liked Jews about as much as Hitler did.
Fire Commission Salvatore J. Cassano has released a statement on the matter:
“I am extremely disappointed in the comments posted online by my son Joseph, which do not reflect the values – including a respect for all people – that are held by me, my family and the FDNY. I have worked hard for many years, as have so many people in the agency, to make the FDNY more diverse and inclusive. There is no place - and I have no tolerance - for statements that would harm the good reputation we enjoy due to our honorable service to all New Yorkers.
“As a parent, this is very painful for me, but I believe my son has made the right decision. I love him very much and, with the support and love of our entire family, we will get through this together.”