UPDATED: Miami Firefighter Investigated for Assaulting Patient

A Miami firefighter at the center of a racially charged incident in 2017 that led to the termination of six firefighters, finds himself at the center of allegations that he beat a patient who was handcuffed to a gurney. The incident occurred at Jackson Memorial Hospital in October, 2022 and was captured on recently released security footage.

Here is more on the earlier incident.

Here is a post about the filing of criminal charges against the four terminated members.

DOUBLING DOWN: Update December 15, 2022 – Lieutenant Robert Webster speaks about the assault saying he has no regrets for striking the man, who spit at him. NBC Miami quoted Lt. Webster as saying: “If he never knew the consequence of spitting in a grown man’s face, then consider my actions public education and this video a PSA.” Lt. Webster has been relieved of duty pending an investigation.

About Curt Varone

Curt Varone has over 50 years of fire service experience and 40 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. Besides his law degree, he has a MS in Forensic Psychology. 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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