PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — A city employee in Pawtucket has been fired for posting an “offensive” comment on his Facebook page.

A spokesperson for Mayor Donald Grebien’s office announced the firing Wednesday after the city conducted an internal investigation and held a pre-termination hearing.

“Upon learning of the inappropriate social media posting, the city took immediate action,” Grebien said in a statement. “Inappropriate and racist comments have no place in the city of Pawtucket, or anywhere else for that matter.”

“I am relieved that we have come to a decision that will support the city’s respect and consideration of all residents,” the mayor continued.

Earlier this month, Joseph Morais, who worked for Pawtucket as a senior engineering project manager, was placed on administrative leave as the city investigated what was said to be a “racist and inappropriate” social media comment.

The post included an image of historic Woonsocket. The comment, which is no longer visible on the post, said, “Great city for low crime because it was white. Truth.”

The Pawtucket City Council publicly condemned the comment just days after the investigation began.

“We are a very diverse city and we have always celebrated that, so this is very disappointing,” Pawtucket City Council President Terrence Mercer said.

The council also urged Grebien to review the projects Morais has worked on over the past three years.

Morais was not eligible for a pension and did not receive severance pay from the city, according to Grebien’s office.

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