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JAMES R. DREDGE, Appellant
vs.
THE STATE OF NEVADA ex rel. ITS DEPARTMENT OF PRISONS, Respondent
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Issues:
Off-duty conduct, alcohol testing, public employee, policy and procedure,
Case Summary:
James R. Dredge, a correctional sergeant, appeals a district court ruling which supported his termination for misconduct. The corrections department took action against Dredge after he was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol while off duty, and associating with an ex-inmate, John Ellis. Dredge was arrested for drunk driving; Ellis was arrested for interfering with the officer's duties. Dredge later placed a second trust deed on his house to bail himself and Ellis from prison. The Nevada Personnel Commission reviewed the case and ordered Dredge reinstate.
Decision of lower jurisdiction:
A district court overturns the ruling of the state's personnel commission. The court said the state commission incorrectly excluded evidence that should have been weighed when considering Dredge's case. Dredge now appeals.
Outcome:
Dredge loses. The Nevada Supreme Court affirmed the district court's ruling.