What should I do?
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What should I do?
I work for the USPS. My work jacket valued at $200 was stolen today. I reported it to my supervisor and asked that she call the postal police but she declined stating that they wont be able to do anything and that it is not the first time it happened. I’m currently waiting around to see if anyone comes back wearing it but thats a long shot. What are my options here?
Asked on December 18, 2017 under Employment Labor Law, New York
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
You don't have any options unless you identify the thief, in which case you could press charges and you might get restitution from the criminal court system (i.e. they could require restitution) and/or sue the thief (such as in small claims court). The law is quite clear that an employer is not liable for criminal acts committed by others, even employees: the employer does not make committing criminal acts (e.g. stealing jackets) part of its workers' jobs, so they are not responsible for those crimes. Therefore, you only have recourse against the thief, not the employer.
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