Dismissal for theft

[Dave A]

Thanks Shaun. Some really good food for thought there. I'd also arrived at the conclusion that both employees will have to be treated the same, albeit by rather more complex reasoning.

Just to add some more context -

We have always dismissed for theft without hesitation in the past, but your point on poor pay is relevant. This is a part-time employee who seemed set for permanent employment in the new year bar mishap. However, there is little doubt she is under financial duress at this point. She came clean with extraordinary haste once it became clear that the net was closing in, and the confession was frank, complete and remorseful.

ASIDE: What the heck is it about cellphones?

I've had one suggestion that mercy (properly presented) might lead to better loyalty. However, on the flip side I have a concern about the message this sends out, particularly to other staff members and clients.

I find the involvement of the supervisor deeply disturbing. I'm afraid uBuntu can go too far.

Your suspended sentence option might provide a middle road...