The MSPB characterizes misuse of agency property as “conversion.” The key difference between “misuse”and “conversion” is that a federal employee may be charged with misuse without proof of intent to permanently deprive. The federal employee may be only be charged with conversion if the federally employee “knowingly” committed the act.
Generally, a federal employee has a duty to protect and conserve federal government property, and is prohibited from using federal government property for any reason other than what is specifically authorized. These authorizations are usually described in agency policy and regulations.
A Misuse of Property charge is generally not seen as a serious offense standing on its own. The range of penalties depend on the significance of the misuse. If the federal employee is entrusted with the property and not only misuses, allows others to misuse, the MSPB tends to impose more significant penalties.
The federal employee attorneys at Melville Johnson, P.C. are highly experienced in MSPB matters such as these, and are willing and able to assist you in your federal employment legal matters. Call or message us today to discuss your claim and learn how we can assist you.