Jury Awards $250k to Nashville Deputy Fire Marshal

Posted by: Curt Varone May 13, 2024 0

The City of Nashville has been ordered by a federal court jury to pay a deputy fire marshal $250,000 plus attorneys fees. Maggie Lawrence claimed she was the victim of gender, race and age discrimination when she was passed over for promotion to fire marshal in 2022.

Lawrence, 66, a civilian employee of the department since 1992, claims that the appointment of a younger white male who started in the fire marshal’s office in 2020, was improper. Full disclosure, the man who was promoted, Lawrence Hutchison, 46, had been a fire captain prior to 2020. According to WSMV, the jury concluded the city was liable for gender discrimination.

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.
© Copyright 2017, All Rights Reserved. | FireLawBlog.com & Curt Varone | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use
x

Check Also

Alabama Recruit Alleges Sexual Harassment and Retaliation

An Alabama firefighter who claims he was sexually harassed by colleagues, and then ostracized after he reported them, has filed suit alleging sexual harassment, retaliation and negligent hiring, training and supervision. Zachary Wilkins filed suit against the city of Albertville alleging he was forced to resign after just six months on the department.

Tennessee Captain Loses Alcoholism-PTSD Disability Claim

A Tennessee fire captain who resigned while facing disciplinary charges in 2021, has failed in his bid to claim constructive termination, disability discrimination, and violations of the FMLA. Newport Fire Department Captain Justin Gilbert claimed that disciplinary charges were brought against him due to his alcoholism, which was worsened by his work-related PTSD.