Bodybuilding Ex-Firefighter Acquitted

UPDATE 8/18/2011: According to the Boston Herald, former firefighter Albert Arroyo has been acquitted of all charges.

One juror who outwardly sympathized with Arroyo stated that she was as an alternate juror, but would not give her name. She noted that federal prosecutors failed to present sufficient evidence to support convictions for mail fraud. “None. Not enough for fraud.”

Dot Joyce, who is a spokeswoman for the Mayor, Thomas M. Menino, appeared to be less than pleased with the verdict, calling the verdicts “unfortunate” and said the city has no intention of resuming payments.

“Mr. Arroyo no longer works for the city,” Joyce said. “It was determined he could perform the duties assigned to him and (he) was ordered to return to work and refused to return. We stand by that decision.”

Stephen Murphy, the City Council President, who also appeared to be less than pleased, said he was “stunned,” but noted, “I don’t think there’s going to be a run on the Retirement Board because this guy lucked out. I don’t think anyone would be that dumb.”

Federal public defender Timothy Watkins said: “I’m gratified the jury carefully considered the evidence and put aside the public’s uninformed outcry. The jury system worked here. I think the jury was able to see (Arroyo) for who he is.”

While it would appear that Arroyo will not be receiving any further disability payments, this ordeal is behind him.