Jacksonville Fire District Chief Under Investigation for Alleged Religious Coercion Against Muslim Firefighter.

Jacksonville Fire District Chief Under Investigation for Alleged Religious Coercion Against Muslim Firefighter

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —
A Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) district chief has been placed on desk duty as an internal investigation unfolds into serious allegations of religious discrimination against a Muslim firefighter.

According to department officials, the district chief — whose name has not yet been publicly released — is accused of coercing a Muslim firefighter into breaking his Ramadan fast earlier this year. Ramadan, a sacred month for Muslims worldwide, involves fasting from sunrise to sunset as an act of faith and devotion.

Sources familiar with the situation say the firefighter was allegedly pressured during a shift to eat or drink against his religious practices, raising concerns not only about religious discrimination but also about a potentially hostile work environment.

The allegations surfaced recently and prompted an immediate review by JFRD leadership. In a statement released Friday, JFRD confirmed that the chief had been reassigned to non-operational duties pending the outcome of the investigation, emphasizing that the department “takes these matters seriously and is committed to ensuring a workplace free of discrimination and harassment.”

City officials and JFRD’s Office of Professional Standards are working jointly to investigate the claims. Additionally, external civil rights groups have voiced concerns, calling for a thorough and transparent process.

“The ability to practice one’s religion freely without fear of retaliation or coercion is a fundamental right,” said a spokesperson for a national Muslim advocacy organization. “No firefighter should ever have to choose between their faith and their career.”

The firefighter involved has not been publicly identified, and it remains unclear whether any formal legal action will follow.

The city of Jacksonville and JFRD have both stated that they will fully cooperate with any additional investigations that may arise, including potential inquiries from state or federal agencies.