A former top official for the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has filed a whistleblower lawsuit accusing the agency and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis of retaliating against him. Shane Desguin, former chief of staff, alleges that he was forced to resign after refusing to comply with directives he believed violated the law or were inappropriate.
The 16-page lawsuit filed in Leon County Circuit Court outlines Desguin's claims of misconduct by FDLE and Governor DeSantis. These include allegations of privacy rights violations of migrants, withholding public records, and calling for arrests of neo-Nazi protesters in potential violation of their First Amendment rights.
FDLE responded to the lawsuit by stating that an internal investigation found numerous acts of gross misconduct by Desguin and another employee, Patricia Carpenter. The investigation reportedly uncovered workplace chaos, safety concerns, sexual harassment, workplace discrimination, and unprofessional behavior.
Desguin's lawsuit details instances where he objected to orders to collect information on migrants arriving in Florida and to arrest protesters based on questionable legal grounds. He claims that his refusal to comply with these directives led to strained work relationships and threats of adverse consequences.
Furthermore, Desguin and other FDLE officials disagreed with Governor DeSantis' team over the release of travel records, leading to tensions and Desguin being placed on administrative leave.
While the Governor's office did not directly address the specific allegations, they provided an internal affairs report that accused Desguin and Carpenter of creating a hostile work environment. Desguin's attorney disputes these claims and asserts that his retirement was forced, not due to misconduct.
The lawsuit seeks a jury trial, compensatory damages, legal fees, and job reinstatement for Desguin. Additionally, Carpenter, who was also terminated, is expected to file her own lawsuit soon.
