Norris

The State Personnel Board (Board) appeals from the judgment of the trial court granting the petition for writ of mandate filed by Alan Norris. Norris appealed his dismissal from employment at the California Institution for Women (CIW) for having brought marijuana onto the institution grounds in his vehicle. His appeal was heard before an administrative law judge whose proposed decision upheld the disciplinary action. Board adopted the decision. The trial court granted Norris’ petition based on his contention that Board’s findings were not supported by substantial evidence he knowingly violated the law. Board contends the trial court erred in granting the petition by failing to rely on the evidence most favorable to Board’s decision. We agree with Board, and reverse the judgment.

Facts

Norris was employed by the Department of Corrections as a correctional officer at the California Institution for Women. Shortly after commencing his employment in February 1983, the administration of the institution received a signed memorandum from a CIW officer relating an off-duty incident on February 18, 1983, involving the use of marijuana by four officers, including Norris, while in…