Jeannette Fire Chief Waives Preliminary Hearing

JEANNETTE (KDKA) -- A Westmoreland County fire chief charged with indecently assaulting a woman who came to the station to apply for a job was in court Tuesday for a preliminary hearing.

Jeannette Fire Chief Randy Dubich was charged back in November. He was suspended in September when the allegations were made.

The alleged assault happened in an equipment room. The woman says Dubich locked the door, tried to remove some of her clothing and touched her inappropriately.

Dubich waived his preliminary hearing. Defense attorney Mike DeRisso says the hearing was waived because it is a "bizarre" case and other considerations need to be taken into account before this case goes before a judge.

DeRisso says a possible plea deal is in the works, but couldn't comment on the terms at this time. DeRisso says he is working with the city of Jeannette to get Dubich back to work.

Dubich has been with the department for 16 years. He is currently on unpaid administrative leave.