Crandall had also set up a rubber mallet to fall on someone, according to Miller.

Duker asked about discipline and if there were any records of reprimands in Crandall’s file. Miller said there wasn’t any in the file but a reprimand was made.

Ron Klein found the can Wednesday when Crandall was off. The feces were in a plastic coffee can with two plastic spoons in it. For O’Connor that was a “clear message to the next shift about what to eat.”

The chief said he terminated Crandall for three reasons: Leaving his feces where it could decompose and become offensive “was an act of violence”; all bodily fluids are biohazards and must be put in a bag; and, putting the can where someone else would find it isn’t socially acceptable.

During his testimony, Crandall said he’s been with Ottumwa Fire for nearly six years and previously served in Fort Worth, Texas, for more than three years.

“Do you have reputation as a prankster?” Duker asked.

“Yes,” Crandall said.

Duker also asked Crandall if he did malicious pranks or had ever hurt anyone. Crandall said no.

“Did you do this as an act of violence?” Duker said.

Crandall said no.

“Did you use bad judgment?” Duker said.

“Yes,” Crandall said.

Crandall also testified he hadn’t done any more pranks since Assistant Chief Tony Miller had reprimanded him.

After all witnesses had testified, the commissioners commented while making their decision.

Civil Service Chairman Jim McDonald said “whether the act was malicious or not” there should be some disciplinary action.