Narconon Spring Hill Drug Rehab Center Wins Discrimination Suit In Federal Court

PRLog (Press Release) - Jan. 17, 2013 - Spring Hill, FL - Narconon Spring Hill (http://www.suncoastrehabcenter.com/our-program/the-narconon-program/), an alcohol and drug rehabilitation center represented by Bricklemyer, Smolker & Bolves of Tampa, FL, won their law suit on Friday, January 11, 2013, when a federal jury unanimously reached a verdict finding that Hernando County intentionally discriminated against them, according to court documents.

According to court documents, after a five day trial of case number 8-11-CV-1368-T-27TGW at Florida Middle District Court, the jury concluded that the County's decision to revoke a special exception permit in 2009 was intentional and, thus, illegal under the Federal Fair Housing Act and Americans with Disabilities Act--both federal laws prohibit discrimination against individuals based on race, religion, handicap, or gender.

“I cannot overstate the importance of this victory. Every day individuals struggle with addiction across our country and this win empowers not only ourselves and other health care providers but all those suffering from addiction who so desperately need help. We are more committed than ever to expanding our rehabilitation and education efforts in order to serve more people,” says Tammy Strickling, CEO and Executive Director of Narconon Spring Hill, Inc.

The County contended that its actions were based on legitimate reasons unrelated to the status of Narconon Spring Hill as a substance abuse service provider; however, the jury received instructions that it could disregard the County's explanation if it was false or unworthy of belief, according to court documents. In addition to finding that the County's decision was discriminatory, the jury awarded Narconon Spring Hill damages for the injuries caused by the June 2009 decision.

The members of the Hernando County commission that made the decision in June 2009 were Rose Rocco, Jeff Stabins, Jim Adkins, Dave Russell with John Druzbick allegedly being the only commissioner that voted against the discriminatory action.

Narconon Spring Hill was represented by Ethan J. Loeb, Jon P. Tasso and David Smolker of Bricklemyer Smolker & Bolves, Tampa, FL. “We are very pleased to have been victorious in this discrimination suit. Our firm remains committed to protecting the rights of the disabled and seeing that our client in this case is able to serve these individuals without discrimination by Hernando County,” said Loeb, lead attorney in the suit.

Bricklemyer Smolker & Bolves is recognized for their proven expertise as well as the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

Narconon Spring Hill (http://www.suncoastrehabcenter.com/about-us/), located in Spring Hill, Florida, is a private non-profit agency licensed by the State of Florida. They are dedicated to eliminating drug abuse and drug addiction through drug prevention, education and rehabilitation. Their mission is saving lives, reuniting families and rebuilding communities. If you or someone you know needs help with an alcohol or drug abuse problem, call a certified counselor day or night for help now at 1-800-511-9403.

Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/12061557/1