To sustain a charge based on falsification, misrepresentation, or fraud, the agency must show by preponderant evidence that:
The MSPB usually makes little distinction among the charges of falsification, fraud, or misrepresentation, as they all require the intent to deceive as an element. The MSPB has established a significant burden for the federal agency to provide evidence that there was an intent to deceive beyond the bare falsity of the information provided. The MSPB specifically states that intent cannot be inferred and must be proven by ample evidence. In order to prove intent by circumstantial evidence, the MSPB has held that the evidence should be clustered and highlighted so that the linkage is clear and strong.
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.
[1]Naekel v. Dept. of Transp., 782 F.2d 975 (Fed. Cir. 1986).