June 25th 2024.
A Black family in Accokeek, Maryland has recently filed a lawsuit against their neighbors for what they believe is a blatant disregard for their civil rights. Angela and Prince Floyd, along with their legal representation from Justly Prudent, have taken legal action against their white neighbors for the alleged harassment and discrimination they have faced in their predominantly white community. According to a press release, the Floyds have been subjected to continuous acts of racial discrimination, harassment, and intimidation by other residents in their neighborhood.
It all began when the Floyds, one of the first Black families to move into the community, became the first to own a waterfront property. Since then, they claim that their white neighbors have filed over 100 police complaints against them, often referring to them as "criminals." These complaints were often filed when the Floyds were hosting private gatherings at their home, while their white neighbors faced no repercussions for doing the same.
On top of this, the Floyds also allege that they were unfairly denied membership in the Calvert Manor Civic Association, a neighborhood organization primarily made up of white residents. They believe that their neighbors, including Richard Wallace, Diane Wallace, Maria Femia, Thomas Cassidy, and Stephen Rannacher, conspired to use their political connections to target the Floyds with unjustified law enforcement and code enforcement actions. These actions included issuing frivolous citations and installing "No Parking" signs along the Floyds' property line.
Jordan D. Howlette, Managing Attorney at Justly Prudent, expressed concern over the Floyds' situation, stating that their actions were a blatant disregard for their civil rights. He emphasized that no family should have to endure such harassment and discrimination, especially within their own community. The lawsuit aims to hold the defendants accountable for the harm inflicted upon the Floyds and other families like them, while also serving as a reminder that everyone has federally protected rights to feel secure in their home without fear of racial bias and intimidation.
The complaint also mentions that the defendants used various county agencies to further harass and intimidate the Floyds, including the Prince George's County Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement and the Nuisance Abatement Board. The Floyds claim that they were treated unfairly and had their use and enjoyment of their home limited, while their white neighbors did not face the same treatment.
The lawsuit cites multiple federal and state laws, including the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the Ku Klux Klan Act of 1871, in describing how the Floyds' civil rights were violated. The Floyds are seeking compensatory and punitive damages, as well as declaratory and injunctive relief to prevent further harassment and discrimination. This case serves as a reminder that everyone, regardless of race, is entitled to fair treatment and should not have to endure discrimination in their own community.
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