Who must direct the questioning of a Department member who has been arrested or is under investigation for a criminal offense?

The Inspector General is responsible for directing the questioning of a Department member who has been arrested or is under investigation for a criminal offense. This role is critical because the Inspector General's office is specifically tasked with overseeing investigations regarding integrity and compliance within the Department. They ensure that any questioning is conducted in a fair and proper manner, adhering to legal standards and departmental policies.

The involvement of the Inspector General helps maintain the accountability and integrity of the Department, ensuring that investigations are handled transparently and without bias. This oversight is essential, especially in cases that could impact not only the individual’s career but also the reputation of the entire Department.

The other roles mentioned, such as the Chief Officer, the Fire Commissioner, and the Department's Legal Counsel, while important in their capacities, do not specifically focus on the conduct of investigations or interrogations related to criminal offenses involving Department members. Their responsibilities are either more generalized in leadership, overall management, or legal advisory roles rather than overseeing an internal investigative process directly.