Derrig Arb Upheld

Incident: Arbitrator’s decision upholds Officer Termination 

Location: MIPD 

Date/Time of Incident: December 7, 2022 -Arbitration 

The City of Marco Island received a favorable decision from Arbitrator Mark Lurie in the John  Derrig arbitration. A grievance was filed by former patrol officer John Derrig claiming the  City terminated his employment without just cause after determining that he committed a  series of improper acts rendering him incapable to continue to serve as a police officer.  

Arbitrator Lurie determined that Mr. Derrig’s actions violated the police department’s  policies and procedures. Arbitrator Lurie agreed with the City’s contention that Mr. Derrig  was insubordinate when he failed to respond to calls for service; that he was untruthful when  questioned about his actions; and that he had neglected his job duties during his shift. 

Arbitrator Lurie accepted the City’s argument that the investigative process was fair, and that City observed Mr. Derrig’s due process rights. Consequently, the decision to terminate has  been upheld. 

Arbitrator Lurie also noted the City’s witnesses were credible and, by way of contrast, found  that Mr. Derrig’s credibility was greatly harmed by his testimony in both the investigative  process as well as during the hearing.  

The arbitrator’s decision is available upon public records request.