Opinion ID: 546391
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Compliance with Douglas

Text: 29 The AJ specifically analyzed the removal penalty in light of each of the four factors of 12 enumerated in Douglas v. Veterans Administration, 5 M.S.P.R. 280 (1981), applicable to the facts of this case. The AJ determined that the removal action was appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances. Webster, slip op. at 15. We think a fair reading of the AJ's lengthy opinion as a whole demonstrates that the presiding official identified, balanced and then considered the relevant Douglas factors in determining that the sustained charge[s] warranted the penalty imposed. Kline v. Department of Transp., 808 F.2d 43, 46 (Fed.Cir.1986). Indeed, the penalty discussion itself is probably sufficient on its face. See Webster, slip op. at 14-17. 30 Petitioner argues, however, that he was not given an adequate Douglas factor review. Apparently, petitioner objects that the other factors listed in Douglas were not discussed by the AJ. But the AJ need not consider every one of the 12 Douglas factors mechanistically by [a] preordained formula. Douglas, 5 M.S.P.R. at 306. In his Douglas review in the penalty section of his opinion, the AJ explicitly addressed the nature and seriousness of the five charges he sustained. The AJ also expressly considered petitioner's past disciplinary and performance records, and the deleterious effect of his course of misconduct on his ability to perform his job. Webster, slip op. at 15. The AJ found that the five sustained charges of misconduct have a direct nexus to the efficiency of the service and that Webster's duties included assisting military mail clerks and units with regulatory compliance and training. Id. Further, the AJ noted Webster had a short tenure, a prior disciplinary record with the Army including three of the same violations, and failed to express any remorse. See id. at 15-17. The AJ's conclusion that the agency did not abuse its discretion in selecting removal cannot be overturned on the basis of the AJ's opinion and its discussion of the Douglas factors.