Tampa, FL (Law Firm Newswire) July 14, 2017 - Retired Detective “Joe” Locus who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and cancer is facing the possibility of eviction. In addition, Locus has been denied social security disability benefits. Locus, a single father, resides in Punta Gorda, Florida.
From 2003 to 2007, Locus was named Officer of the Year with his sheriff’s office. He was commended for his investigative skills and his positive relationship with the community. However, in 2008, Locus was injured on the job, and his PTSD started to take its toll on his marriage. As a result, he retired from his employment in law enforcement, in hopes of returning after a full recovery.
Leading Florida veterans’ disability lawyer David W. Magann states, “A claimant who is represented by an attorney in applying for Social Security disability is more likely to be successful than one who is unrepresented.” “In the event of a denial of benefits, the claimant may file a claim with the Social Security Appeals council,” added Magann.
Locus’ condition is similar to that of thousands of service members and first responders who suffer from PTSD. He received an initial diagnosis of cumulative PTSD while working as a police officer and detective in New York, and then in North Carolina. In 2002, he responded to the crash of a US Airways plane that was headed toward Greenville, South Carolina. There were 21 fatalities, including 19 passengers and two pilots. Locus was the second officer to respond to the scene.
Following a 12-year career in law enforcement, he is facing much adversity. He recently asked for help from Senator Marco Rubio, whose office is assisting him in pleading his case to a judge, who will hopefully rule in his favor regarding the receipt of Social Security disability benefits.
David W. Magann, P.A.
Main Office:
156 W. Robertson St.
Brandon, FL 33511
Call: (813) 657-9175
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Tampa, Florida 33618
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