Signal 99 - Theetge Firing

This episode of the 55 KC Morning Show features a deep dive into the controversial termination of Cincinnati Police Chief PG Fiji, analyzed by investigative journalist Signal 99. The discussion centers on the city manager Cheryl Long’s decision to fire Fiji, which Signal 99 argues was driven more by ego and political maneuvering than legitimate administrative or policy violations. Key points include the dispute over mandated overtime, Fiji’s decision to attend a school board meeting to address youth-related crime on public transit, and the failure to act on critical emergency calls during a fatal fire on North Edgewood Avenue. Signal 99 criticizes the fire department’s lack of protocol in relaying life-threatening information via radio and highlights the absence of disciplinary action despite clear failures. The episode also touches on the broader culture of accountability (or lack thereof) in city leadership, with Signal 99 suggesting that awards were given to officials involved in these failures, further undermining public trust. The segment ends with a call to support Chief Fiji through merchandise and community solidarity. The episode underscores systemic issues in public safety management, including poor communication protocols, leadership ego, and the politicization of law enforcement. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and listening to frontline personnel. Signal 99 positions herself as a watchdog, urging listeners to follow her on Facebook for detailed breakdowns of both the termination letter and the fire incident. The narrative builds a compelling case that the city’s actions—particularly the lack of consequences for the fire department—reveal deeper institutional failures.