A police car outside a San Antonio fire station amid the investigation of former union president Christopher Steele.
Christopher Steele, the former president of the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, faces severe stalking charges that could lead to significant prison time. His arrest followed allegations of sending threatening messages to Deputy Chief Valerie Frausto, who has since been sworn in as the first woman fire chief in San Antonio. As the investigation unfolds, concerns about safety and misconduct loom over the firefighter community.
In a surprising twist of events, San Antonio is swirling with controversy after Christopher Steele, the former president of the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, has been hit with serious charges of stalking. Indicted on December 18, 2024, Steele is facing a third-degree felony charge that could lead to a prison sentence ranging between two to ten years if he’s found guilty.
The situation escalated with Steele’s arrest on May 31, in San Marcos, following a warrant issued from Bexar County. What exactly led to these charges? Allegedly, Steele sent multiple menacing messages to Valerie Frausto, who was serving as the Deputy Chief at the time. He reportedly posed as an “independent investigator,” stirring all kinds of trouble from behind a facade.
According to court documents, Frausto wasn’t alone in receiving such troublesome communications; other command staff members reported similar threatening messages that raised eyebrows. However, it’s essential to note that Steele is currently only charged in connection to his alleged harassment of Frausto.
Steele’s history as the union president wasn’t without its fair share of drama. With a notable track record of battling with city management, the 58-year-old retired from both the San Antonio Fire Department and his firefighters’ union leadership over two and a half years ago. Yet, remnants of his past actions continue to echo as his charges unfold.
In an inspiring development within the San Antonio Fire Department, Frausto was sworn in as the new fire chief on October 31, 2024, making history as the very first woman to hold that coveted position. However, her journey to this leadership role was clouded by unwanted attention. As the search began for a replacement for former SAFD Chief Charles Hood, who was compelled to retire following an investigation into inappropriate remarks, things took a turn for the bizarre.
As Frausto prepared for her new position, she began receiving numerous texts and emails believed to be from an “independent investigator” named “Frank,” starting in March 2024. These unsettling messages accused her of alleged misconduct, including claims related to her previous workplace decisions and personal relationships, ultimately shaking her sense of security.
Recognizing the potential threat posed by these messages, Frausto reached out to the City Attorney’s Office, prompting a cease-and-desist letter sent to “Frank” on March 13, 2024. The rising tension led to a city investigation, especially given Frausto’s worries about her safety. Fortunately, the police were able to trace the communications back to Steele, confirming suspicions that had been brewing.
Now, with Steele managing to maintain his freedom on bond, the legal proceedings continue with no trial date yet on the horizon. Meanwhile, the current leadership of the San Antonio Professional Firefighters Association, including President Joe Jones, has been quick to distance themselves from Steele’s actions, asserting that they stand firm against such behavior. It was also reported that two other SAFD command staff members received similar messages about their own alleged misconduct, hinting at a wider pattern of intimidation that could have serious repercussions.
The unfolding saga in San Antonio encapsulates various threads—leadership transitions, the shadows of past conflicts, and serious allegations of misconduct. As the case develops, residents are left to ponder how a long-standing figure in their community could find himself in such dire circumstances.
Stay tuned as more details come to light in this ongoing investigation. It’s a gripping story that combines elements of ambition, fear, and profound change, reflecting the challenges faced not only by individuals but by institutions navigating the complexities of such serious claims.
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