Chattanooga’s Pension Fund Ruling Sparks Controversy
Chattanooga, a city known for its vibrant community and rich history, is currently in the midst of an unfolding saga regarding pension benefits for former police lieutenant, Craig Joel. Recently, Chancellor Jeff Atherton ruled that the Chattanooga Fire and Police Pension Fund is required to pay Mr. Joel pension benefits due to his claim of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This ruling, however, has stirred the pot, as the Pension Board has decided to appeal the decision.
A Long Journey for Mr. Joel
Mr. Joel’s path has been anything but straightforward. He began his career in public service in June 1991 as a volunteer firefighter with the Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department, working for nearly two years before transitioning to the Chattanooga Police Department in February 1994. Starting as a communications clerk, he eventually climbed the ladder to become a lieutenant.
However, things took a turn when Mr. Joel was placed on administrative leave after it became apparent that he was intoxicated while in possession of his firearm and patrol vehicle. Following this, he filed a claim for pension benefits on April 19, 2018, citing a “cumulative post traumatic psychological disorder” attributed to numerous traumatic incidents he encountered during his time on the force.
The Incident That Changed Everything
One particularly harrowing event he highlighted was the response to a tragic active shooter attack at the Naval Reserve Center on July 16, 2015, which resulted in the deaths of five military personnel. This incident, along with several others, contributed to his claim for benefits.
Medical evaluations were conducted by specialists, with both the city-hired and pension board-hired doctors declaring that Mr. Joel was unable to continue his duties as a police officer. Yet, the pension board rejected his claim, arguing that the traumatic experiences he mentioned were part and parcel of the expectations of police work. They claimed Mr. Joel’s application included “multiple exaggerated, misleading and false statements,” suggesting that his condition could have been improved with appropriate medical treatment if he had been cooperative.
Chancellor Atherton’s Decision
In a twist of fate, Chancellor Atherton found the pension board’s denial of Mr. Joel’s claim to be “arbitrary or capricious.” He emphasized that the lack of supporting evidence behind the board’s rationale left much to be desired. “The record lacks any supporting evidence that would justify or lead a reasonable person to conclude that such an interpretation of the language of the policy is appropriate,” he stated. As a result, he ruled that *pension benefits should be paid retroactively* from the initial denial date and continue ongoing.
Mr. Joel expressed gratitude, noting that he had received support from the city’s human resources department throughout the process. “The city human resources department actually initiated the disability case and ordered my medical retirement with their full support,” he remarked, reflecting on the support he received from various city entities during this tough time.
Looking Ahead
While the Pension Board gears up to appeal the chancellor’s decision, many are left wondering how this will impact the relationship between first responders and the systems intended to support them. Whether the board’s appeal will lead to a different outcome is still uncertain, but it highlights ongoing conversations around mental health and the challenges employees in high-stress positions like the police face.
As Chattanooga continues to follow this story, it serves as a reminder of the complex tapestry that makes up the lives of those who serve and protect. The community rallies around those in service, and this incident may very well provide an opportunity for further dialogue on the support systems necessary for the well-being of our first responders.
