A school official is coming to the defense of Ramapo’s fire inspector after the town confirmed an ongoing full investigation into his actions. 

The official disputes claims that inspector Adam Peltz gave passing grades to schools that were dangerously in violation of fire codes. He says Peltz initially failed his school.

State Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski says the fire inspector's apparent mishandling of safety checks at multiple private schools in the town has resulted in an "emergency situation." He says he sent a letter to the Department of State Tuesday calling for the state to take over safety inspections within the town.

The assemblyman also demanded a public hearing on the controversy.

Other lawmakers and community activist groups are echoing Zebrowski's demands.

A spokesperson for the Secretary of State says officials are monitoring the situation but are allowing the town and state Department of Education to take the lead in the investigation, at least initially.

The investigation into Peltz's actions is expected to wrap up this week. He has remained on the job so far.