Michael Verdugo, a former Hollywood Police officer was fired for failing to disclose his role in a gay porn film, called “Rope Rituals” that he performed in well over a decade ago. Verdugo was is also a former contestant on the HGTV reality show Design Star. He was placed on administrative leave on July 16, 2008 after his roll in the film was discovered.

However, yesterday, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement ruled that he can keep his certification and continue working as a police officer.

Verdugo said he feels vindicated by the decision, stating:

“We definitely opened up their eyes and letting Hollywood know we’re not just going to sit down and take this.”

Verdugo and his lawyer, George Castrataro, said the Hollywood Police Department wanted Verdugo’s certification taken away.

“They wanted blood. They were out for vengeance. They could have just terminated me but they went for my certificate. They went after me.”