Jernigan v. State, Department of Management Services, Division of Retirement

Appellant, Reggie E. Jernigan, challenges the final order of the Division of Retirement denying his claim for “disability in-line-of-duty” retirement benefits under section 121.021(13), Florida Statutes (2004). We agree with Mr. Jernigan that this ease is controlled by Dixon v. Department of Administration, Division of Retirement, 481 So.2d 52 (Fla. 1st DCA 1985); therefore, we reverse and remand with directions.

Mr. Jernigan worked for over 25 years until 2004 when he was forced to retire due to a debilitating psychological condition he claimed was work-related. Thereafter, he applied for…