Had to suspend someone at work this week. After getting caught working on some highly inappropriate personal material at work, this person was written up and told a second offense would lead to termination. The type of personal work on the clock changed, but it was still using company time to do their own thing instead of helping out in other areas when needed. After repeated warnings to all my staff to discontinue personal work, I finally had to say something to my supervisors. Then another person complained and we started taking screen shots and copying files (which were slyly hidden where no one would look, but duh, Publisher shows you the last several documents that have been saved...). Everything was sent to HR. More warnings about personal work followed, and were ignored again and again.
We had to get the person's written statement about the activities and finally got word back that we were to "suspend pending investigation." It's highly unlikely this person will be coming back.
Part of me feels terrible, because I know this person has health issues and needs the insurance provided. But the other part of me wonders just how many times we have to warn people before they get a clue! I mean, knowing that you needed this job (especially since the economy is still crap here) wouldn't you try your damnedest to not screw up?? I gave so many informal warnings (chances) before I finally had to say something.
