How can someone be suspended from his job because they have been indicted before they are found guilty?

Question

Today, the treasurer of South Carolina was suspended from his office because he was indicted by a grand jury for cocaine distribution. How can you be suspended or fired before you have a trial? I thought that we are innocent until proven guilty. Can someone explain this action to me? Thanks...

Answer 1

Being suspended WITH pay should be indisputable.

Being suspended withOUT pay, probably requires a clause in the employment contract, or the terms related to the specific post.

Answer 2

Innocent until proven guilty in regards to the criminal charges.

However, an employer can take steps to protect his company or in this case, the state can take steps to protect the community. If the process set up by the employer or state says an indictment for drug violations will result in suspension, then the employer or state are within their legal rights. The probably will not fire the person until the criminal charges are resolved, but they certainly can suspend the person.

Answer 3

It only makes sense to take steps to minimize the risk to the public until the charges are resolved. He's been suspended, not terminated. There is a presumption of innocence, but that doesn't mean that you leave someone under indictment in a position of trust.

Answer 4

I am sorry you found out the ugly truth about the judicial system. No one holds anyone "innocent" until proven guilty.
Everyone assumes people guilty before trial, and some even continue to label others as guilty even if the courts vidicated them.

Answer 5

there could be a clause in his contract stating that he must maintain positive moral behavior. He was arrested for his alleged actions; that can come under any immoral clause written into the contract of employment.