William M. Toliver Ii v. Alaska State Commission for Human Rights

Summary

The Alaska Supreme Court held that the Commission's duty to investigate discrimination complaints impartially requires a reasonable effort to interview at least some complainant-identified witnesses who may possess relevant information. Because the Commission interviewed respondent-favorable witnesses but made no effort to interview any witnesses identified by Toliver, its investigation was insufficient to support dismissal for lack of substantial evidence. The court reversed and remanded for completion of an impartial investigation and further appropriate action.