A Black family residing in Accokeek, Maryland, has taken legal action against their white neighbors, alleging a pattern of racial discrimination and harassment that violates their civil rights.
Angela and Prince Floyd, represented by Justly Prudent, filed the lawsuit on Juneteenth.
The lawsuit claims that since moving into the predominantly white community of Calvert Manor in Accokeek and becoming the first Black family to own waterfront property there, the Floyds have faced relentless harassment and discriminatory treatment from their neighbors.
According to the lawsuit, the Floyds have been subjected to over 100 police complaints filed by their neighbors, often labeling them as “criminals.”
These complaints were reportedly filed during private gatherings hosted by the Floyds, contrasting with leniency shown to white residents who hosted similar events without facing similar scrutiny.
Additionally, the lawsuit asserts that the Floyds were unfairly denied membership in the Calvert Manor Civic Association (CMCA), an organization predominantly composed of white residents.
Defendants named in the lawsuit, including Richard Wallace, Diane Wallace, Maria Femia, Thomas Cassidy, and Stephen Rannacher, are accused of conspiring to misuse their political influence to target the Floyds with unwarranted law enforcement and code enforcement actions, such as issuing unjustified citations and imposing restrictions like “No Parking” signs near the Floyds’ property.
Jordan D. Howlette, Managing Attorney at Justly Prudent, expressed concern over the alleged violations, stating:
“The actions taken against the Floyds represent a blatant disregard for their civil rights. No family should endure such egregious harassment and discrimination based on their race, especially within their own community.”
The lawsuit also accuses the defendants of improperly involving county agencies like the Prince George’s County Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) and the Nuisance Abatement Board (NAB) to further harass and intimidate the Floyds, impeding their enjoyment of their home in ways not imposed on white residents.
Citing violations of federal and state laws, including the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the Fair Housing Act, the lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages.
The Floyds are also seeking declaratory and injunctive relief to halt further harassment and discrimination.
The case underscores ongoing tensions over racial equity and community inclusion in Accokeek, highlighting broader issues of systemic discrimination that continue to impact marginalized communities across the United States.
