Decision in Miami-Dade Facebook Case

Posted by: Curt Varone May 14, 2012 4 Comments

Statter911 just broke the story about Miami-Dade fire captain Brian Beckmann’s demotion to firefighter, and the requirement that he undergo a psychological examination and take diversity training.

Captain Beckmann created a furor after he posted comments on his personal Facebook page that were critical of the parenting skills of certain racial minorities. Following the decision, he told a news reporter that Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez wanted him fired, fire chief Shorty Bryson and the union stood up for him.

The union has promise to appeal the punishment. More on the story.

About Curt Varone

Curt Varone has over 45 years of fire service experience and 35 as a practicing attorney licensed in both Rhode Island and Maine. His background includes 29 years as a career firefighter in Providence (retiring as a Deputy Assistant Chief), as well as volunteer and paid on call experience. He is the author of two books: Legal Considerations for Fire and Emergency Services, (2006, 2nd ed. 2011, 3rd ed. 2014, 4th ed. 2022) and Fire Officer's Legal Handbook (2007), and is a contributing editor for Firehouse Magazine writing the Fire Law column.
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