ACLU Secures $485,000 Settlement for FWC Biologist Fired over Charlie Kirk Post
5 hours ago
- #Free Speech
- #Government Retaliation
- #First Amendment
- Former FWC biologist Brittney Brown reached a $485,000 settlement in a First Amendment lawsuit.
- Brown was fired in 2025 for reposting a meme on her private Instagram after Charlie Kirk's death.
- Florida officials falsely claimed her post caused operational disruption and public complaints, which were proven fabricated.
- The U.S. District Court sanctioned an FWC official for a false affidavit and a law firm for vexatious litigation.
- Settlement includes $275,000 to Brown ($40,000 back wages, $235,000 damages) and $210,000 in attorneys' fees and costs.
- FWC agreed to provide Brown a neutral reference and allow her to interact with staff as an external partner.
- Brown and ACLU officials criticized FWC and Florida administration for political retaliation and abuse of power.
- The case highlights broader issues of government suppression of free speech for public employees in Florida.