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HB 6511

Relief/Maury Hernandez/Department of Corrections

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Fabricio and 1 co-sponsor

HB 6511 compensates former Deputy Maury Hernandez for injuries from a shooting linked to the Department of Corrections' failure to enforce probation laws.

Died in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 6511

Summary of HB 6511: Relief for Maury Hernandez

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 6511
Title: Relief/Maury Hernandez/Department of Corrections
Status: Now in Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee
Introduced: October 27, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Claims Bills

Purpose and Intent

HB 6511 aims to provide financial compensation to former Broward County Sheriff's Deputy Maury Hernandez for injuries and damages he sustained due to the Department of Corrections' failure to enforce probation laws and regulations. The bill seeks to address the consequences of these failures, which directly contributed to a life-threatening incident involving Deputy Hernandez.

Key Provisions

  • Compensation Appropriation: The bill includes an appropriation to compensate Deputy Hernandez for the injuries he sustained during a shooting incident on August 6, 2007.
  • Waiver of Liens: It expresses legislative intent to waive certain liens that may be applicable to the compensation awarded.
  • Limitation on Payments: The bill sets limitations on the total amount of compensation and attorney fees that can be claimed.
  • Effective Date: The bill will take effect upon becoming law.

Background Context

On August 6, 2007, Deputy Hernandez was critically injured when he was shot in the head by David Maldonado, a probationer who had a history of legal violations. Prior to the incident, Maldonado had admitted to multiple probation violations, including illegal possession of a firearm and drug use, which the Department of Corrections failed to report as required by law. This negligence is cited as a contributing factor to the shooting.

Maldonado was subsequently apprehended and is currently serving a life sentence for attempted murder and other charges. The bill highlights systemic failures within the Department of Corrections, including a modification of its zero-tolerance policy that may have allowed Maldonado to remain armed despite his violations.

Affected Parties

  • Maury Hernandez: The primary individual affected, seeking relief for his injuries and damages.
  • Department of Corrections: The agency whose failures are being addressed through this bill.
  • Taxpayers: As the bill involves an appropriation, taxpayers may ultimately bear the financial responsibility for the compensation awarded.

Legislative Actions

  • November 4, 2025: Referred to the Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee, Budget Committee, and Judiciary Committee.
  • October 27, 2025: Bill filed.

Sponsors

  • Primary Sponsors: Fabricio, Rizo

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of HB 6511, detailing its purpose, key provisions, and the implications for those involved. The bill seeks to rectify the consequences of administrative failures that led to a serious injury of a law enforcement officer.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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