Former Home Depot Employee Says He Was Fired for Assisting Denver Police Officers
Joe Pumilio, a long-time employee at a Home Depot in Denver, claims he was fired after coming to the aid of two police officers in a physical altercation. On September 11, Pumilio witnessed two Denver Police Officers attempting to apprehend a man wanted on drug charges outside the Bear Valley Home Depot in the Harvey Park South neighborhood. As the situation escalated into a violent struggle, Pumilio stepped in to assist.
“Pretty violent confrontation,” Pumilio said, explaining why he felt the need to intervene. However, nearly two weeks after the incident, Pumilio says he was informed by Home Depot management that he was being let go for his involvement. According to him, the company cited a violation of corporate policy, which prohibits employees from physically engaging with customers.
Pumilio, a former law enforcement officer, believes the situation called for an exception to the rule. “Corporate has a policy, and they say that there are no exceptions,” he said. “But in life, there are exceptions, and we deal in life, not in corporate policy.” Despite his termination, Pumilio stands by his decision to help the officers, stating he would do it again if faced with the same circumstances.
Since his firing, Pumilio has received numerous messages of support from the Denver Police Department, and there is talk of a potential letter of commendation for his actions. He is also considering legal action against Home Depot for wrongful termination.
If you’d like to support Joe Pumilio and his family during this time, a GoFundMe has been set up to help them navigate the situation. You can donate here.
