by Mindy Aguon

Guam - A former Department of Corrections officer maintains he never used illegal substances and doesn't know how he tested positive for methamphetamines. Joaquin Cruz appeared before the Civil Service Commission again on Thursday night as he fights to get his job back.

Cruz's attorney, Curtis Van De Veld, says his client should be retained because it was his first positive test and the government doesn't mandate termination until after a second positive test. He suggests Cruz has a good work record and should be retained by the department.

Van De Veld also argues that his client was not given any indication from management that he was going to be terminated before receiving his adverse action.

The merit hearing continues on Tuesday.