NEPTUNE BEACH, Fla. – A former Neptune Beach Police commander is suing the department, alleging harassment and discrimination by Chief Michael Key Jr. after disclosing several health conditions.
Commander Gary Snyder, who served with the department since 2017, filed a 27-page lawsuit detailing claims of workplace discrimination. The lawsuit alleged Chief Key began harassing, discriminating against, and retaliating against Snyder in October 2023 after learning about his cancer diagnosis and severe diverticulitis that required surgery and recovery.
The situation ultimately led to Snyder’s constructive discharge in June 2024.
Before joining the Neptune Beach Police Department, Snyder spent 20 years with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, where he retired as a detective in April 2017. He immediately joined the Neptune Beach Police Department that same month.
According to the lawsuit, Snyder maintained positive professional relationships with colleagues, including Key, who became the permanent police chief in August 2023 and served as Snyder’s immediate supervisor.
The lawsuit detailed how Snyder informed Chief Key about various health issues, including malignant melanomas, diverticulitis, and an enlarged prostate. Key allegedly responded to these disclosures by saying, “It’s hell getting old,” among other things.
Following Snyder’s diverticulitis diagnosis, the lawsuit claimed Key’s behavior changed significantly. The chief allegedly stopped morning greetings, ceased personal conversations, and began closely monitoring Snyder’s whereabouts, particularly criticizing his attendance at medical appointments.
When Snyder requested extended Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave on January 16, 2024 for medical treatment, Key allegedly continued berating him about his absences and publicly complained about trying to “get Snyder through June” for retirement, despite Snyder having no such plans to retire.
The lawsuit stated Snyder took FMLA leave in February and returned to work in April. Upon his return, the alleged retaliation resumed, including:
- Circulating or failing to stop rumors about Snyder being “close to being fired”
- Scheduling meetings requiring Snyder to come in on his day off
Snyder filed two written complaints against Chief Key, one in February and another in May. Despite these complaints, the harassment and retaliation allegedly continued, leading to Snyder’s constructive discharge on June 3, 2024.
The lawsuit sought compensation for lost earnings and benefits, as well as damages for non-economic losses, including mental anguish.
The Neptune Beach Police Department has not responded to requests for comment.