A Phoenix firefighter is enmeshed in legal troubles again after a vindictive rampage on a home that inflicted damages exceeding $25,000. Gregory Knauss, with prior convictions for crimes including DUI and forgery, stands accused of a spree that left a house's drainage and roofing critically damaged, in what appears to be a romantic quarrel gone sour. Police allege that Knauss acted out in retaliation against an individual who threatened to expose his affairs, as per court documents reviewed by FOX 10 Phoenix.
On January 23, Knauss allegedly executed a plan, supposedly fueled by his professional expertise, to severely vandalize the Peoria townhome in a calculated act of aggression towards the man involved in the dispute. A witness claimed to have seen him atop the residence, where prosecutors say, deftly clogged its plumbing with spray foam and maimed the air conditioning system, an affidavit explained. A spell of heavy rain on the same day compounded the damages, resulting in significant water intrusion. Knauss, caught on February 27, faces charges that include burglary and criminal damage. These adding to his sheet, following a 2011 case where he attempted to sell a stolen motorcycle, which ABC15 reports led to his conviction for attempted theft and forgery.
Amidst the proceedings, Knauss received a judge's orders to be placed under electronic surveillance, but Knauss was released on his own recognizance, a term implying he must appear in court as needed. His employment status with the Phoenix Fire Department presently hangs in suspension as they actively probe into the matter. "The Phoenix Fire Department is aware of previous allegations and issues related to Mr. Knauss. Each issue was investigated and managed consistent with our process and when warranted the appropriate level of discipline was given," the department stated in a release grabbed by FOX 10 Phoenix.
As Knauss's saga unfolds, previous conversations about his character resurface. His defense attorney, during the motorcycle case, beseeched leniency from prosecutors, parading his then-clean record save for a minor DUI charge years prior, which could be seen in documents procured by ABC15. The impact of a felony conviction on Knauss's career as a firefighter was highlighted. Without an active plea from Knauss's current legal team, public scrutiny now tightens around his past actions and present allegations.
