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GENE A. WILLIAMS, Appellant
vs.
SECRETARY OF THE NAVY, Appellee
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Issues:
Random testing, due process, evidence, policy and procedure, search, Fourth Amendment, Fifth Amendment
Case Summary:
Gene Williams appeals his discharge from the Navy for violating its substance abuse policy. The Navy moved to discharge Williams after he tested positive for marijuana in a random drug screening. Williams did not challenge the Navy's discharge proceedings but subsequently filed suit in U.S. district court. Williams claimed the Navy's policy violated his right to privacy and due process.
Decision of lower jurisdiction:
The U.S. District Court affirmed Williams' discharge from the Navy. The court ruled Williams failed to submit evidence to support his complaint. Williams now appeals.
Outcome:
Williams wins. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit reversed the lower court's decision. The appeals court ordered the case remanded with instructions to vacate the original judgment.