BREAKING NEWS: Indicted Code Enforcement Director Retires

Jim Young, long-time Key West Code Enforcement Director, filed his retirement paperwork Friday afternoon

Key West’s long-time Code Enforcement Director, Jim Young, opted to retire from his City post while facing a third-degree felony indictment for tampering with evidence. He was indicted along with brothers, disgraced City Attorney Ron and Chief Building Officer Raj Ramsingh. Ron was terminated without cause at last night’s special meeting.

Young was arraigned before Judge Mark Jones on Thursday, April 24. Although not present for the arraignment, Young’s attorneys were.

He is being represented by Cara Higgins and Jerry Ballarotto — setting up an epic legal drama between his legal team and Assistant State Attorney Colleen Dunne. The legal team has a long history with Dunne, dating back to the Tree House Murders and defendent Tyrone Tucker.

Tucker eventually represented himself at trial and, although not acquitted, prosecutors decided not to retry the case.

Members of the Key West City Commission and City Manager Brian Barrosso received notice from Assistant City Manager Todd Staughton via email at 1:12 p,m. on Friday.

“Madam Mayor and Commissioners,” the email read. “Jim Young has sent his official notice of retirement to HR this morning. We are processing his paperwork and will start the hiring process next Monday. Respectfully, Todd.”

If convicted, Young could receive a maximum of five years in the state penal system.

Under Florida Statutes, Young could lose his retirement benefits if convicted of certain felonies, particularly those involving a breach of public trust. This is governed by Florida Statute § 112.3173, which mandates the forfeiture of retirement benefits for public officers or employees convicted of specified offenses committed prior to retirement. The forfeiture includes all rights and benefits under any public retirement system, except for the return of the employee’s own contributions as of the date of termination

As a reminder, all suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law by a jury of their peers.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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