On-the-job cat rescue lands worker in Verizon’s doghouse

A Verizon worker in the Philadelphia area was suspended from his job 15 days after using the company’s equipment to rescue a cat stranded on top of a telephone pole, CBS Philly reported this month.

Maurice German was working in a neighborhood in Port Richmond, Pennsylvania, in early March when he was summoned by a frantic resident asking him to help rescue 'Momma' the cat, who had been stranded for 12 hours, the station reported.

Mr. German swung into action by using a boom lift to reach Momma, who was safely returned to its owner and was not harmed amid cheers of neighbors watching the worker perform what his company saw as a hazardous mission.

In speaking of the suspension, a Verizon spokesman said vehicles and equipment were not intended to be used in the area where Mr. German rescued the cat.

“We take no joy in this job action,” the spokesman told news reporters. “However, we’re committed and responsible for keeping our employees and customers safe while working in a particular area. …Unfortunately, while this employee’s goal was admirable, he potentially put his life and those around him in jeopardy.”