By Robert G. Chadwick, Jr., Partner, Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP.
On January 3, 2020, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals entered an order holding Great White Construction, Inc., Florida Roofing Experts, Inc. and owner Travis Slaughter in contempt for failing to pay $2,202,049 in OSHA penalties previously affirmed by the Court on October 2, 2017 and June 5, 2018.
The contempt order states the companies and Mr. Slaughter “shall be subject to coercive sanctions, including incarceration, and such other relief as this Court deems just and proper, for any noncompliance after 10 days after the date of this order.”
The January 3, 2020 judgment underscores the authority of federal courts to enforce their orders. Moreover, the judgment shows that companies ignore assessed OSHA penalties at their own peril.
Robert G. Chadwick, Jr. frequently speaks to non-profit organizations regarding occupational safety and health issues. To contact him for a speaking engagement, please e-mail him at rchadwick@realclearcounsel.com.
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