Othello Community Hospital v. Department of Employment Security

Othello Community Hospital fired Leona Lawrence for stealing hospital property. Lawrence, who pleaded guilty to a criminal charge because of the theft, was disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits. RCW 50.20.060(2). Thereafter, Lawrence was employed in and terminated from two more jobs. After the latest termination, the Department of Employment Security allowed her benefits based in large part on credits accrued during her employment with Othello, and the Commissioner of the Department ultimately ruled that a charge would be made against Othello. On certification by the Superior…