Local

Miramar deputy fire rescue chief sues city. Here are 3 key takeaways

By Produced using AI, based on original work by Luisa Yanez
A high-ranking Miramar fire rescue official is suing the city, alleging supervisors retaliated against him after he reported wrongdoing.
A high-ranking Miramar fire rescue official is suing the city, alleging supervisors retaliated against him after he reported wrongdoing. Matias J. Ocner mocner@miamiherald.com

A Miramar deputy fire rescue chief is suing the city, claiming supervisors retaliated against him after he reported alleged crimes and mismanagement within the department.

Deputy Chief Bruce Britton’s lawsuit seeks protection under Florida’s Whistleblower Act and damages exceeding $50,000.

FULL STORY: Miramar deputy fire rescue chief sues for whistleblower protection from supervisors

Here are three key takeaways:

  • Britton filed a three-page complaint in Broward County civil court, alleging he reported violations of “federal, state and/or local laws, rules and/or regulations” that posed dangers to public safety.
  • The lawsuit claims Britton faced retaliation including demotion or transfer, denial of promotions and benefits and lost jobs to “significantly less qualified” individuals.
  • Britton, second in command at Miramar Fire Rescue, also alleges supervisors shared details of his complaints with coworkers and subjected him to unwarranted disciplinary actions based on “baseless accusations.”
Deputy Fire Chief Bruce Britton has sued the City of Miramar and is seeking whistleblower protection.
Deputy Fire Chief Bruce Britton has sued the City of Miramar and is seeking whistleblower protection. City of Miramar

Other things to know:

  • The complaint does not identify specific incidents or employees involved. Britton’s attorney, Matthew Daley, declined to comment, and the city had not been officially served as of May 19.
  • The lawsuit follows recent turmoil at the department. Former Fire Chief Ramon Perez was fired in March 2025 amid allegations of nepotism in the firefighter recruitment process.
  • The department named Jermaine McFarlane as its new chief. It remains unclear if Britton applied for the top job.

This report was produced with the assistance of a proprietary tool powered by artificial intelligence and using our own originally reported, written and published content. It was reviewed and edited by our journalists.