Social Media Posts Lead to Reassignment of Florida Lieutenant

Posted by: Curt Varone September 24, 2020 0

A veteran Jacksonville fire lieutenant has been reassigned to headquarters as the department investigates complaints into his social media posts. Anthony Treadwell is accused of posting photos depicting Aunt Jemima and the Confederate flag, along with commentary supporting the group “Proud Boys”.

According to News4JAX, the Florida Proudboys have been designated as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. Jacksonville Fire Rescue reportedly took action to investigate the posts as soon as they became aware of them. News4JAX quoted the city’s public affairs director, Nikki Kimbleton, as saying: “While the matter is under investigation, Treadwell has been reassigned to JFRD HQ and will have no official interaction with the general public.”

Lt. Treadwell sued the city in 2018 claiming he was retaliated against when he testified on behalf of an African American firefighter in a discrimination case. He received a $30,000 settlement.

Here is a link to News4JAX coverage that could not be embedded.

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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