Florida Firefighter Facing Termination Over Medical Run

A Melbourne, Florida firefighter who was named firefighter of the quarter last year, may be terminated following allegations that he had an angry exchange with nursing home staff and carelessly tossed an oxygen cylinder that struck a nursing home patient.

Allan Reyna, 43, has been suspended with pay as he awaits the outcome of his disciplinary proceedings following the February 23, 2016 incident. Reyna has had a series of prior disciplinary incidents that will likely figure into the determination of his fate.

In July 2015 following a previous disciplinary infraction, Melbourne Fire Chief Charles R. Bogle wrote to Reyna stating: “I strongly advise you to modify your behavior in order to meet the standards expected of a public servant and public safety professional. It is essential that your actions earn the department’s and the public’s trust.”

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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