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Article Courtesy of First
Coast News
By Ken Amaro
Published December 2, 2021
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WATCH VIDEO |
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JACKSONVILLE — Nearly 12 years, an Air Force veteran learned of a disappointing
judgement in a case against his former homeowner's association.
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Air Force veteran
Larry Murphree has since moved from the 55 and older
community where his legal fight all began so many years ago.
"We won, but we lost," said Murphree.
After spending tens of thousands of dollars and being forced
to sell his home in the Sweetwater community, the court
awarded Murphee a total of $1,223.
"We have been to 200 hearings and where this figure came
from I don't know," he said.
The veteran said he lost 12 years of his
life, but it was worth fighting for the small flag he
displayed outside his home.
"The flag never loses, I would do it again yes," said
Murphree. "But I would think a fair settlement would be
involved."
This fight began when Murphree decided to place a 17-inch
American flag in a flower pot near his front door. He said
he had just watched soldiers return home in flag draped
coffins and wanted to show his support. |
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The HOA that operated at Sweetwater at the time cited him, but instead of
removing the flag, he kept it flying. The fines started piling up and the
legal fight ensued.
"Right now they're trying to seek attorney fees for this from Mr. Murhpree
and from myself," said Attorney Gust Sarris.
Sarris has handled Murphree's defense and counter lawsuits from day one.
"You are always disappointment when you think you have won something when in
reality it is a loss," said Sarris.
They plan to appeal, in other words they say the fight is not over.
Murphree has created a Go Fund Me to help in the fight. It is called The
Flag Vet.
"We are going to appeal because we just don't understand this award, and I
am not going to lose a second home over this fight," said Murphree.
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