Former Los Angeles Traffic Officer Faces Ethics Charges for Alleged Sick Leave Abuse

A former Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) traffic officer, Heloise Mitchell, faces ethics charges after allegations surfaced that she abused sick leave and other protected paid time off to work shifts at a second job with the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). The allegations prompted an ethics enforcement proceeding following a termination that was upheld by the city’s Civil Service Commission.

Key Takeaways

• Mitchell allegedly used sick leave and Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave dozens of times between 2021 and 2022 to cover absences while working for USPS.
• The city found credible evidence that Mitchell falsified documentation and misused protected leave, leading to her termination in 2023.
• The Los Angeles City Ethics Commission formally accused Mitchell of misusing her city position, with potential penalties including significant financial fines.

Background of the Allegations and Employment

Heloise Mitchell was employed by LADOT as a traffic officer from October 2019 until her termination in March 2023. Prior to joining LADOT, she had worked for the USPS since 2013. According to the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission, Mitchell initially failed to disclose her USPS employment when she joined LADOT, falsely claiming no outside employment. Although she later disclosed the second job in 2021, the paperwork was submitted late, contained false information, and never received the necessary approvals.

Investigations revealed that Mitchell’s work schedules at LADOT and USPS frequently overlapped. To manage these conflicts, she allegedly took sick leave, FMLA leave, or other paid leave from her city job to cover the shifts she missed while working for USPS. Between August 2021 and May 2022, investigators identified 45 instances where Mitchell reportedly used protected leave improperly.

Termination and Ethics Charges

Following an evidentiary hearing after Mitchell challenged her termination, a hearing examiner found credible evidence that she falsified documentation and explanations for her absences, misused protected and paid leave, and falsely claimed that a supervisor had instructed her to take the time off. The Civil Service Commission upheld her firing in December 2025.

Subsequently, the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission determined there was probable cause to believe Mitchell violated city ethics laws by misusing her city position for personal gain. On September 30, 2026, the commission formally accused her of one count of misconduct related to these allegations.

It is important to note that a finding of probable cause does not equate to a determination of guilt. A hearing officer will be appointed to review the allegations before the Ethics Commission issues a final decision on whether a violation occurred and what penalties may apply. If found liable, Mitchell could face a financial penalty of $5,000 or up to three times the amount of money improperly received or reported, whichever is greater.

Legal Issues Surrounding Public Employee Leave Abuse

This case highlights the complexities involved in investigating alleged misuse of protected leave by public employees. Key legal issues include the proper documentation and approval of outside employment, the use of sick leave and FMLA leave, and the potential for falsification of records.

In California, public employees are entitled to certain protected leaves, but these leaves must be used lawfully and with proper authorization. Misuse of such leave can lead to disciplinary actions, including termination and ethics charges. Additionally, the case underscores the importance of timely and truthful disclosure of secondary employment to avoid conflicts of interest or abuse of public resources.

Cases involving allegations of leave abuse often require thorough examination of employment records, schedules, and communications. Evidence such as leave requests, supervisor approvals, and work schedules from both employers can be critical. The involvement of multiple government agencies adds layers of complexity to the investigation and potential litigation.

Why This Case Matters for Public Sector Employment and Ethics Enforcement

The Mitchell case serves as a reminder that public employees must adhere to strict ethical standards, especially when holding multiple government positions. The alleged conduct not only involves misuse of paid leave but also raises concerns about transparency and accountability in public service.

For personal injury and wrongful death claims involving public entities or employees, understanding the ethical and employment background of involved parties can be relevant. Cases involving public employees may also raise questions about employer liability, supervision, and the preservation of evidence related to work schedules and conduct.

Golden Coast Trial Attorneys recognize that serious personal injury litigation can intersect with complex employment and ethics issues, particularly when public employees or agencies are involved. Evaluating all responsible parties and available evidence is essential in such cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of a probable cause finding by an ethics commission?

A probable cause finding means there is enough evidence to proceed with a formal investigation or hearing, but it does not mean the individual is guilty of a violation.

Can a public employee work a second government job?

Public employees may hold multiple government jobs, but they must disclose secondary employment and avoid conflicts of interest or misuse of leave.

What types of leave are protected under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)?

FMLA protects eligible employees’ rights to take unpaid, job-protected leave for specified family and medical reasons.

What penalties can result from abusing sick leave or falsifying employment records?

Penalties can include termination, ethics charges, financial fines, and potential legal consequences depending on the severity of the misconduct.

Individuals facing serious injury or wrongful death claims involving public employees or entities should consult experienced Los Angeles County personal injury attorneys to evaluate all aspects of liability and evidence. For a confidential discussion about your case, contact Golden Coast Trial Attorneys for a free case review.

Original reporting by KTLA: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/la-traffic-officer-sick-leave-usps-ethics-charge/