Opinion ID: 795393
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Claims Arising After the Release

Text: 14 Littrell contends that two of his First Amendment and retaliation claims are not barred by the release because they relate to actions that occurred after the agreement was signed and that were not contemplated by the agreement. We agree that Littrell may challenge such actions by defendants. To establish a prima facie case of retaliation based on the First Amendment, a public employee plaintiff must show that (1) he engaged in protected speech, (2) his interest as a citizen in making such speech outweighs the employer's interest in promoting efficient public service and (3) his speech was a motivating factor in the adverse action taken against him. Howard v. Columbia Pub. Sch. Dist., 363 F.3d 797, 801 (8th Cir.2004); see Okruhlik v. Univ. of Ark., 395 F.3d 872, 878 (8th Cir.2005) (noting the same analysis applies to First Amendment and Title VII retaliation claims). Whether speech was a motivating factor is a question of fact, but the sufficiency of the evidence to create an issue of fact is a question of law. de Llano v. Berglund, 282 F.3d 1031, 1036 (8th Cir.2002). 15 Littrell alleges that his placement at Station 5 and defendants' failure to investigate his complaint of death threats were in retaliation for his reporting sexual activity at Station 19. However, Littrell has not set forth any evidence to demonstrate that his speech in November of 2002 motivated defendants to engage in their alleged retaliatory conduct in the summer of 2003. As to his placement at Station 5, he concedes that defendants made the decision based upon the animosity Littrell might experience from his co-workers at other stations. ( See Appellant's Br. at 32.) Littrell had the same concern and has never requested placement at a station other than Station 5. As to defendants' refusal to investigate his complaints of death threats, Littrell relies only upon his allegation that the refusal was a result of the statements he made over six months before. Such a bare allegation is insufficient to survive summary judgment. See Howard, 363 F.3d at 801-02 (mere speculation insufficient to support First Amendment claim). For these reasons, we conclude that Littrell has failed to meet his prima facie burden on his First Amendment retaliation claims. Summary judgment was warranted.