San Antonio Firefighter Suspended After Positive Drug Test
Firefighter Rocky Bronco received a 30-day unpaid suspension following a positive marijuana test in San Antonio.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Drug Crime
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San Antonio Fire Chief Valerie Frausto suspended firefighter Rocky Bronco for 30 days starting May 1, 2026, after he tested positive for marijuana during a random screening. The suspension was finalized following a settlement meeting held under the citys collective bargaining agreement.
Why it matters
The disciplinary action stems from a failure to provide a valid prescription for marijuana use, which violated fire department policies regarding controlled substances. While the fire chief initially proposed an indefinite suspension, a negotiated agreement ultimately reduced the penalty.
Rocky Bronco was handed a 30-day unpaid suspension for violating substance control policies. He must complete a mandatory rehabilitation program and will be subject to potential random follow-up drug testing for two years.
The players
Rocky Bronco
Rocky Bronco is a San Antonio firefighter who was placed on suspension following a policy violation.
Valerie Frausto
Valerie Frausto is the San Antonio Fire Chief who signed the suspension notice for the firefighter.
International Association of Firefighters
The International Association of Firefighters is the union that represents fire service personnel and issued a censure against Chief Frausto.
The details
Under the terms of the settlement, Bronco is required to complete a rehabilitation program and return a negative drug test to resume his duties. The case prompted broader tension within the department, as the International Association of Firefighters subsequently censured Chief Frausto in August.
Timeline
Nov. 24: Rocky Bronco tested positive for marijuana during a random screening.
April 30: Fire Chief Valerie Frausto signed the suspension notice.
May 1: The 30-day suspension became effective.
August: The firefighters union censured Fire Chief Valerie Frausto.
Legal Context
This case highlights the procedural protections and settlement mechanisms embedded in municipal labor agreements. It follows the citys collective bargaining agreement which governs how the department handles substance use violations and disciplinary disputes.
The suspension ensures that personnel responsible for public safety meet the departments strict substance control standards. Residents should note that the department continues to utilize random screenings to maintain operational readiness and safety.
The takeaway
Maintaining strict adherence to substance control policies is a critical component of ensuring professional conduct within emergency services. This case serves as a reminder of how labor agreements function to resolve disciplinary disputes between city departments and their employees.
Further reading
For more information on local enforcement and labor protocols, visit the drug-crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Dallas Morning News.
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