Originally from Dispute Resolution Journal

The primary purpose of this article is to analyze the manner and the basis upon which arbitrators decide discipline and discharge cases involving employee theft. The discussion focuses on the degree of proof necessary to sustain a discharge for theft, what effect the existence of a clear-cut company policy might have on an arbitrator's decision, and what circumstances may lead an arbitrator to overturn management's discipline.

The authors offer practical guidelines for instituting a policy that clarifies each party's responsibilities in handling employee theft cases. In addition, steps are suggested that management can take to substantially minimize incidents of theft of company property.