Florida Captain Opts to Retire Rather than Serve Suspension for Plantation Signs

An African American captain who was given a 20-day suspension for posting “Welcome to the Plantation” signs in the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue’s fire prevention office last August has opted to retire.

Captain Alvin Floyd, a 24-year JFR veteran, had been charged with unbecoming conduct and misuse of a computer after the signs were discovered on August 27, 2012. The signs were posted on each of three entry doors to the fire prevention office, where Captain Floyd was assigned. An investigation pointed toward Captain Floyd as the perpetrator, and he later confessed.

The penalty imposed, a 20 day suspension, had been stayed pending a Civil Service appeal. Captain’s Floyd’s retirement was effective Monday, meaning he will not have to serve the suspension.

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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