Gabriel Arocha has filed a lawsuit against his former employer, alleging wrongful termination following a workplace injury. The complaint was filed on February 18, 2026, in the Circuit Court of Pinellas County, Florida, naming JSF619 Corp. as the defendant. This case highlights significant issues surrounding workers’ rights and employer responsibilities under Florida’s Workers’ Compensation Law.
The plaintiff, Gabriel Arocha, was employed by JSF619 Corp., operating as Pawn Max II in St. Petersburg, Florida. On October 30, 2025, while performing his duties involving testing metal with acid, Arocha sustained severe injuries to his left forearm. Despite reporting the incident immediately to store manager Darren Cormier and seeking medical treatment through EMS services, Arocha faced challenges when attempting to claim workers’ compensation benefits. According to the complaint, he engaged in “statutorily protected activity” by informing the company’s workers’ compensation carrier about his injuries and working reduced hours due to functional limitations.
Arocha alleges that despite these efforts and his ongoing recovery from injuries sustained at work, he was unjustly terminated on November 15, 2024—an act he claims was direct retaliation for pursuing a workers’ compensation claim. This action violates Florida Statute §440.205 which prohibits employers from discharging or intimidating employees for filing such claims. The complaint further accuses JSF619 Corp. of willful misconduct and disregard for Arocha’s rights as an employee.
In seeking justice, Arocha demands judgment for damages exceeding $50,000 along with associated costs against JSF619 Corp., emphasizing the physical, economic, and emotional toll this situation has taken on him. He is also requesting a trial by jury to address these grievances comprehensively.
Representing Gabriel Arocha is attorney Jonathan I. Rotstein from Rotstein, Shiffman & Broderick LLP based in Daytona Beach. The case is presided over by Judge Massey under Case ID: 26-001083-Cl.
Source: 26001083CI_Gabriel_Arocha_v_JSF619_Corp_Complaint_Pinellas_County_Florida.pdf
