Former Volusia County sheriff's deputy to settle PTSD workers' comp claim for $120,000

A retired Volusia County sheriff's deputy agreed to settle a workers' compensation claim related to post traumatic stress disorder with the county for $120,000, records show.

Robert Campbell, 53, spent 16 years working for the Sheriff's Office before retiring. His settlement will go before the Volusia County Council for approval on Tuesday. It is part of the body's consent agenda.

Over the years, Campbell said he has dealt with post-traumatic stress disorder, high blood pressure and heart disease, health problems he attributes to his work. He has suffered a heart attack.

More: Volusia bailiff suspended for text-message coaching prosecutors during DUI trial

In 2019, Campbell was also suspended for 20 days after exchanging text messages with prosecutors during a DUI trial, apparently coaching them on questions during a witness's cross examination.

The settlement was agreed upon in mediation.

Of the $120,000 agreed upon, $30,000 will go to attorneys and a undetermined amount will be used to pay off costs. Campbell agreed not to reapply for any positions.

A 2018 state law expanded workers’ compensation benefits for first responders dealing with PTSD in Florida, enabling those with a diagnosis to recoup lost wages even in the absence of a physical injury.

The bill, which was cosponsored by Volusia County's late state Sen. Dorothy Hukill, was passed unanimously by the Florida legislature and signed into law by then-Governor Rick Scott.

The law’s passage was fueled by the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando.

More: New Florida law expands PTSD benefits for first responders, but is it enough?

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Former Volusia County sheriff's deputy to settle PTSD workers' comp claim for $120,000

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