Five Miami Gardens Hispanic Officers Plan Lawsuit Alleging Discrimination

Five Hispanic Miami Gardens police officers have announced plans to file a federal lawsuit against the city, alleging racial discrimination, retaliation, and violations of the Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights over several years. The officers claim they were subjected to demotions, transfers, suspensions, and removals from duty without cause, particularly after raising concerns about internal misconduct and inconsistent discipline. Among their demands is the termination of Police Chief Delma Noel-Pratt, whom they accuse of enabling or perpetuating mistreatment against Hispanic officers and whistleblowers. Attorney Michael Pizzi highlighted that the officers were targeted not only because of their ethnicity but also due to their complaints about administrative wrongdoing. The officers have also filed complaints with the Florida Commission on Human Relations and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, awaiting federal investigation or right-to-sue notices. The city has declined to comment on the pending litigation but stated a commitment to addressing workplace issues.