Former firefighter files another lawsuit for job back after acquittal on rape charges
By Jason McNabb
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ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico (KOAT) — Aden Heyman, a former Albuquerque firefighter who was acquitted of rape charges last year, is suing yet again for his job back and damages, claiming wrongful termination and defamation.
Heyman was one of three Albuquerque firefighters accused of raping a woman nearly three years ago, and one of two to actually go on trial. He has been adamant that he was treated unfairly by Albuquerque Fire Rescue before his trial and wants damages, as well as his job back.
Heyman was eventually fired by Albuquerque Fire Rescue after an internal investigation and was also sued by the victim. Court records show that lawsuit is still ongoing. However, Heyman, along with fellow accused firefighter Anthony Martin, were both acquitted on the rape charges two years later.
Heyman’s attorney, Jason Bowles, said at the time, “Their careers have been ruined. Their lives have been ruined for two years, and their families have been affected. So, now, thank God they’re free, but now they have to rebuild it all back.”
Last year, Heyman sued the city of Albuquerque and Fire Chief Emily Jaramillo, claiming defamation, wrongful termination, and violation of due process rights. That suit was dismissed by a district court judge just last month.
Now, another suit has been filed, this time in federal court. It makes similar claims to the previous one, alleging Heyman’s termination from the department was wrongful since it happened before a trial or any admission of guilt. Chief Jaramillo is once again accused of defamation, claiming she branded Heyman as a criminal through public statements before the case went to trial. The suit is asking for back pay, damages for alleged civil rights violations, and even reinstatement at Albuquerque Fire Rescue.
A spokesman for Albuquerque Fire Rescue said, “An internal investigation determined the employee violated AFR policies. The city will respond to his allegations in court.”
Bowles declined to speak with KOAT about the lawsuit Wednesday.
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