Newsome v. Equal Emp. Opportunity Comm'n, 301 F.3d 227 (5th Cir. 2002). · Go Syfert
Newsome v. Equal Emp. Opportunity Comm'n, 301 F.3d 227 (5th Cir. 2002). Cases Citing This Book View Copy Cite
264 citation events (264 in the last 25 years) across 23 distinct courts.
Strongest positive: Williams v. Attorney General State of Louisiana (laed, 2024-10-01)
Treatment trajectory · 2002 → 2026 · click a year to view as-of
2002 2014 2026
Top citers, strongest first. 50 distinct citers. How cited ↗
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Williams v. Attorney General State of Louisiana
E.D. La. · 2024 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the consent of the parties is not required under this section.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Garcia v. Unknown Staff
E.D. Tex. · 2024 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the consent of the parties is not required under this section.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Atkins v. Director, TDCJ
E.D. Tex. · 2023 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the consent of the parties is not required under this section.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Gilbert v. Director, TDCJ-CID
E.D. Tex. · 2023 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the consent of the parties is not required under this section.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Ward v. Director, TDCJ-CID
E.D. Tex. · 2022 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the consent of the parties is not required under this section.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Adams v. Robinson
E.D. Tex. · 2022 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the consent of the parties is not required under this section.
discussed Cited as authority (verbatim quote) Garcia v. Lumpkin
E.D. Tex. · 2022 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence high
the consent of the parties is not required under this section.
discussed Cited as authority (quoted) Finch v. Texas Department of Public Safety
E.D. Tex. · 2024 · quote attribution · 1 verbatim quote · confidence low
the consent of the parties is not required un- der this section.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Cortez v. Rubio
5th Cir. · 2026 · confidence medium
Mandamus is a “drastic and extraordin- ary remedy reserved for really extraordinary causes.” 12 To maintain a man- damus claim, “[a] plaintiff must show a clear right to the relief sought, a clear duty by the defendant to do the particular act, and that no other adequate remedy is available.” Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (citations omitted).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Vance Scott Senior v. Woodruff Camus, et al. (2×)
E.D. La. · 2026 · confidence medium
James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoners plaintiffs.” (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002))); Newsome, 301 F.3d at 231 (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous). 10 See Startii v. United States, 415 F.2d 1115, 1116 (5th Cir. 1969); see also Adepegba v. Hammons, 103 F.3d 383, 387 (5th Cir. 1996) (noting that the revocation of the privilege of proceeding in forma pauperis is not new), abrogated in pa…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Vance Scott Senior v. St. Charles Parish, et al. (2×)
E.D. La. · 2026 · confidence medium
James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoners plaintiffs.” (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002))); Newsome, 301 F.3d at 231 (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous). 10 See Startii v. United States, 415 F.2d 1115, 1116 (5th Cir. 1969); see also Adepegba v. Hammons, 103 F.3d 383, 387 (5th Cir. 1996) (noting that the revocation of the privilege of proceeding in forma pauperis is not new), abrogated in pa…
cited Cited as authority (rule) Kimberly Monique Ross v. Brandi Brown, Shirley Kennedy, and Edward Kramer
S.D. Miss. · 2026 · confidence medium
Tex. Nov. 11, 2014) (citing Newsome v. Equal Employment Opportunity Comm., 301 F.3d 227, 231-33 (5th Cir. 2002)). doubtful in fact).” Id. at 555. (citations and footnote omitted).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Raychelle Marie Harris v. Mike Tregre, et al.
E.D. La. · 2025 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 7 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018). 8 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.” (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227 , 231 (5th Cir. 2002))); Newsome, 301 F.3d at 231 (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous). 9 Neitzke v. Williams, 490 U.S. 319, 325 (1989). 10 Davis v. Scott, 157 F.3d 1003, 1005 (5th Cir. 1998) (quoting McCormick v. Stalder, 105 F.3d 1059, 106…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) TyQashia Sellers v. United States of America, et al. (2×) also: Cited "see, e.g."
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Newsome, 301 F.3d at 231.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Keisha Ann Jacquet v. Dorrance Publishing Company, Et Al. (2×)
E.D. La. · 2025 · confidence medium
James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.” (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002))); Newsome, 301 F.3d at 231 (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous). 10 See Startii v. United States, 415 F.2d 1115, 1116 (5th Cir. 1969); see also Adepegba v. Hammons, 103 F.3d 383, 387 (5th Cir. 1996) (noting that the revocation of the privilege of proceeding in forma pauperis is not new), abrogated in par…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Curtis Lanson Mitchell v. Nancy A. Miller, ET AL. (2×)
E.D. La. · 2025 · confidence medium
James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoners plaintiffs.” (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002))); Newsome, 301 F.3d at 231 (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous). 10 See Startii v. United States, 415 F.2d 1115, 1116 (5th Cir. 1969); see also Adepegba v. Hammons, 103 F.3d 383, 387 (5th Cir. 1996) (noting that the revocation of the privilege of proceeding in forma pauperis is not new), abrogated in pa…
examined Cited as authority (rule) Stancu v. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (3×)
N.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Id. at 229.
cited Cited as authority (rule) Ross v. Bailey-Christian
S.D. Miss. · 2025 · confidence medium
Tex. Nov. 11, 2014) (citing Newsome v. Equal Employment Opportunity Comm., 301 F.3d 227, 231-33 (5th Cir. 2002)).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Jefferson v. Sam's East, Inc. d/b/a Sam's Club
E.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 230 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Davis v. Hagen
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Opportunity Comm’n, 301 F.3d 227, 231-33 (Sth Cir. 2002) (affirming dismissal of nonprisoner claims for frivolity and failure to state a claim under § 1915(e)(2)(B)(i) and (ii))) (additional citations omitted). granted under Rules 8 and 12(b)(6), but that his action is frivolous and delusional under 28 U.S.C. § 1915 (e).”).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Harris v. Louisiana State
E.D. La. · 2025 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 8 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018) (emphasis added) (citing 28 U.S.C. § 1915 (e)(2)(B)). 9 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.” (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002))).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Atay v. USCIS
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Yu v. State of TexasCase remanded to the 272nd District Court, Brazos County, Texas
unknown court · 2025 · confidence medium
Adimora-Nweke v McGraw, 2024 WL 2874561 , *2 (5th Cir), citing Newsome v EEOC, 301 F3d 227, 230 (5th Cir 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Yildirim v. Mayorkas
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Still, a writ of mandamus is only available if a plaintiff makes three showings: (1) that the plaintiff has a clear right to the relief, (2) that the defendant has a clear duty to perform the act in question, and (3) that “no other adequate remedy is available.” Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (citations omitted).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Crotts v. Freedom Mortgage Corporation
S.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
“The consent of the parties is not required under this section.” Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 230 (5th Cir. 2002); see also, e.g., Atkins v. Director, TDJC-CID, 2023 WL 7414300 , at *1 (E.D.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Lafta v. Williamson County
5th Cir. · 2025 · confidence medium
His complaint was not dismissed on summary judgment but under 28 U.S.C. § 1915 (e)(2)(B)(i), which provides as to complaints filed in forma pauperis that “the court shall dismiss the case at any time if the court determines that the action or appeal is frivolous or malicious[.]” 3 Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002). 2
cited Cited as authority (rule) Caldwell v. Shur
E.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 230 (Sth Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Hernandez Macias v. Jaddou
N.D. Tex. · 2025 · confidence medium
The Mandamus Act, 28 U.S.C. § 1361 , vests the district court with original jurisdiction over “any action in the nature of mandamus to compel an officer or employee of the United States or any agency thereof to perform a duty owed to the plaintiff.” Newsome v EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (citation omitted).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Williams v. Austin Police Dept
5th Cir. · 2025 · confidence medium
“We review a determination that a case is frivolous under § 1915(e)(2)(B)(i) for abuse of discretion.” Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (per curiam) (citation omitted).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Jones v. Grapeland ISD
5th Cir. · 2024 · confidence medium
Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 232 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Chhim v. City Of Houston
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
“To the extent that [Chhim] is attempting to invoke Title VII as a jurisdictional basis for suing the EEOC, [he] cannot do so. [The Fifth Circuit has] held that Title VII does not confer on a charging party a right of action against the EEOC.” Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 301 F.3d 227, 232 (5th Cir. 2002); see also Gottschalk v. City & Cnty. of San Francisco, 964 F. Supp. 2d 1147 , 1160–61 (N.D.
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Stennis v. The Moorings of Oak Harbor Property Owners' Association LLC
E.D. La. · 2024 · confidence medium
Section 1985(3) prohibits conspiracies that deprive, “either directly or indirectly, any person or class of persons of the equal protection of the laws.”126 “To plead a claim under § 1985(3), a plaintiff must plead sufficient facts to plausibly show: (1) the existence of a conspiracy; (2) for the purpose of depriving a person or class of the equal protection of the laws, (3) acts in furtherance of the conspiracy; and (4) injury to the person or property or deprivation of a right of a United States citizen.”127 When a plaintiff brings a conspiracy claim based on racial animus, the plai…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Aguilar v. Rago
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
Judges enjoy absolute im- munity for judicial acts performed in judicial proceedings.10 Mr. Aguilar alleges in this case that Judge Gamboa capitalized Mr. Aguilar’s name in a pleading, set a hearing in the guardianship case, and took more than one week to rule on Mr. Aguilar’s jurisdictional challenge.11 These alle- gations do not state a viable § 1983 monetary damages claim and describe judicial acts within the 3 Allison v. Kyle, 66 F.3d 71, 73 (5th Cir. 1995). 4 Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002). 5 Ashcroft v. Iqbal, 556 U.S. 662, 678 (2009). 6 Bell Atl.
cited Cited as authority (rule) Farooq v. Bolt
5th Cir. · 2024 · confidence medium
Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Bonner v. Collier
5th Cir. · 2024 · confidence medium
The district court did not abuse its discretion in dismissing Bonner’s complaint as frivolous because Bonner had previously filed a nearly-identical lawsuit that was dismissed with prejudice. 1 “[I]n forma pauperis complaints may be dismissed as frivolous if they seek to relitigate claims that allege substantially the same facts arising from a common series of events which have already been unsuccessfully litigated by the plaintiff.” 2 As detailed by the magistrate judge, Bonner previously filed a § 1983 complaint in the Southern District of Texas against Defendants, as well as two stat…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Newson v. Chase Bank
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
“A complaint lacks an arguable basis in law if it is based on an indisputably meritless legal theory, such as if the complaint alleges the violation of a legal interest which clearly does not exist.” Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Kayihura v. Garland
N.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
“A district court’s -6- decision not to exercise jurisdiction under the mandamus statute . . . is a discretionary one.” Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (per curiam) (citation omitted).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Jones v. Orange Texas PD
5th Cir. · 2024 · confidence medium
Because Jones failed to meet his burden to establish the court’s subject matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1331 , the magistrate judge construed Jones’s complaint broadly as invoking the court’s diversity jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. § 1332 . 2 See Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (per curiam) (“We review a determination that a case is frivolous under § 1915(e)(2)(B)(i) for abuse of discretion.”). 3 Yohey v. Collins, 985 F.2d 222 , 224–25 (5th Cir. 1993). 2 Case: 24-40070 Document: 33-1 Page: 3 Date Filed: 05/17/2024 No. 24-40070 holding that his claims…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Ahmed v. Bitter
S.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
“A district court’s decision not to exercise jurisdiction under the mandamus statute . . . is a discretionary one.” Newsome v EEOC, 301 F3d 227, 231 (5th Cir 2002), citing Franchi v Manbeck, 972 F2d 1283, 1289 (Fed Cir 1992).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Ayvali v. US Department of Homeland Security
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
A writ of mandamus is only available if a plaintiff makes three showings: (1) that the plaintiff has a clear right to the relief, (2) that the defendant has a clear duty to perform the act in question, and (3) that ‘‘no other adequate remedy is available.’’ Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (citations omitted).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Sun v. Jaddou
W.D. Tex. · 2024 · confidence medium
A writ of mandamus is only available if a plaintiff makes three showings: (1) that the plaintiff has a clear right to the relief, (2) that the defendant has a clear duty to perform the act in question, and (3) that ‘‘no other adequate remedy is available.’’ Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (citations omitted).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Reynolds v. Titus County (2×)
5th Cir. · 2024 · confidence medium
“We review a determination that a case is frivolous under § 1915(e)(2)(B)(i) for abuse of discretion.” 4 A complaint is considered frivolous under this section “if it has no arguable basis in law or in fact.”5 Additionally, we review de novo a district court’s dismissal under § 1915(e)(2)(B)(ii)–(iii) for failure to state a claim or because a complaint _____________________ 2 Section 1915(e)(2)(B) allows a district court to sua sponte dismiss an IFP complaint if the suit is “frivolous or malicious,” “fails to state a claim on which relief may be granted,” or “seeks mone…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Ali v. Gensler
E.D. La. · 2024 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 3 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018). 4 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.”) (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous)). 5 Neitzke v. Williams, 490 U.S. 319, 325 (1989). the complaint alleges the violation of a legal interest which clearly does not exist.’”6 A court may not dismiss a claim simply…
cited Cited as authority (rule) Monk v. Massey
E.D. Tex. · 2023 · confidence medium
Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 230 (5th Cir. 2002).
cited Cited as authority (rule) Ezeani v. Reagan
5th Cir. · 2023 · confidence medium
Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002).
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Williams v. Department of Social Services State of Louisiana
E.D. La. · 2023 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 7 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018). 8 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.”) (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous)). 9 Neitzke v. Williams, 490 U.S. 319, 325 (1989). 10 Davis v. Scott, 157 F.3d 1003, 1005 (5th Cir. 1998) (quoting McCormick v. Stalder, 105 F.3d 1059, 1061 (5th Cir. 1997)). 11 Moor…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Williams v. Solar Alternatives Inc
E.D. La. · 2023 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 7 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018) (citing 28 U.S.C. § 1915 (e)(2)(B)). 8 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.”) (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous)). 9 Neitzke v. Williams, 490 U.S. 319, 325 (1989). 10 Davis v. Scott, 157 F.3d 1003, 1005 (5th Cir. 1998) (quoting McCormick v. Stalder, 105 F.3d…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Shannon v. Jackson
E.D. La. · 2023 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 7 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018). 8 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.”) (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous)). 9 Neitzke v. Williams, 490 U.S. 319, 325 (1989). the complaint alleges the violation of a legal interest which clearly does not exist.’”10 A court may not dismiss a claim simpl…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Fletcher v. Kenner Police Department
E.D. La. · 2023 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 7 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018). 8 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.”) (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous)). 9 Neitzke v. Williams, 490 U.S. 319, 325 (1989). the complaint alleges the violation of a legal interest which clearly does not exist.’”10 A court may not dismiss a claim simpl…
discussed Cited as authority (rule) Fletcher v. Louisiana State
E.D. La. · 2023 · confidence medium
Feb. 22, 2011). 7 Amrhein v. United States, 740 F. App’x 65 , 66 (5th Cir. 2018). 8 James v. Richardson, 344 F. App’x 982, 983 (5th Cir. 2009) (“Section 1915(e)(2)(B) requires dismissal of frivolous IFP actions even if those actions are brought by non-prisoner plaintiffs.”) (citing Newsome v. EEOC, 301 F.3d 227, 231 (5th Cir. 2002) (applying § 1915(e)(2)(B) to a non-prisoner whose complaint was frivolous)). 9 Neitzke v. Williams, 490 U.S. 319, 325 (1989). 10 Davis v. Scott, 157 F.3d 1003, 1005 (5th Cir. 1998) (quoting McCormick v. Stalder, 105 F.3d 1059, 1061 (5th Cir. not dismiss a c…
Retrieving the full opinion text from the archive…
Vogel Denise NEWSOME, Plaintiff-Appellant,
v.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION; Patricia T. Bivins; Marvin L. Hicks; Sharon C. Williams, Defendants-Appellees
01-30817.
Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit.
Apr 23, 2002.
301 F.3d 227
Vogel Denise Newsome, Jackson, MS, pro se., Susan Lisabeth Starr, E.E.O.C., Washington, DC, for Defendants-Appellees.
Jolly, Stewart.
Cited by 2 opinions  |  Unpublished
3 passages pin-cited by 3 cases
Pinpoint authority: #22,773 of 633,719
Citer courts: N.D. California (1) · E.D. Texas (1) · Court of Appeals of Utah (1)
PER CURIAM:

Vogel Denise Newsome (“Newsome”) appeals the district court’s dismissal of her complaint against the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and three of its employees (collectively, “EEOC”), for failure to state a claim upon which relief can be granted and for frivolity. Finding that this appeal is frivolous, we DISMISS the appeal and place Newsome on NOTICE that future frivolous appeals may subject her to sanctions.

I

Newsome was an employee of Christian Health Ministries (“CHM”) for approximately one month. CHM fired her, and she filed a charge of discrimination with the EEOC, alleging that she had been discriminated against based on her religion and retaliated against in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The EEOC sent a letter to CHM asking them to respond to the charge. CHM responded to the request by providing documentation that it is a religious organization that is exempt from the religious discrimination provisions of Title VII, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 2000e~l(a). [1] In a “Dismissal and Notice of Rights” sent to Newsome, the EEOC checked a box indicating that it was dismissing Newsome’s charge because “[tjhe Respondent [CHM] employs less[*230] than the required number of employees or is not otherwise covered by the statutes.” In the Dismissal, the EEOC also notified Newsome that she had a right to bring suit in state or federal court against CHM within ninety days of her receipt of the notice.

Newsome filed a pro se “Writ of Mandamus,” which we treat as a petition, in federal district court against the EEOC and three of its employees. She sought to compel them to further investigate her charge, and to enjoin them “from interfering and depriving her of rights under Title VII ... and ... the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.” She alleged that the officials had failed to perform their duties to her and sought review of their actions under the Administrative Procedures Act, 5 U.S.C. § 702! She also alleged that the EEOC and CHM were engaged in a conspiracy to violate her civil rights under 42 U.S.C. § 1985.

The district court granted Newsome’s motion to proceed in forma pauperis, and referred the case to a magistrate to handle all pre-trial matters “upon consent of the parties” under 28 U.S.C. § 636(c). The EEOC filed a motion to dismiss the complaint for lack of subject matter jurisdiction and for failure to state a claim. The district court referred this motion to the magistrate under 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(1)(B). The magistrate judge recommended that Newsome’s claims be dismissed under 28 U.S.C. § 1916(e)(2)(B)(i) and (ii) (“ § 1915”) for frivolity and for failure to state a claim upon which relief could be granted. The district court, “after considering the complaint, the record, the applicable law, the Report and Recommendation of the United States Magistrate Judge, and the objections to the Magistrate Judge’s Report and Recommendation filed by the plaintiff,” adopted the magistrate judge’s report and recommendation. Newsome then filed a “Motion to Stay Proceedings to Enforce a Judgment; Motion to Amend Judgment; and Motion to Set Aside Judgment,” which the district court denied. Newsome timely appealed.

II

In her pro se brief, Newsome argues that this matter was improperly referred to a magistrate judge without her consent. The first order of reference was to a magistrate judge to “handle all pre-trial matters, including trial and pre-trial proceedings upon consent of the parties pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 636(c).” Neither party objected at the time, though it appears that neither party specifically consented, either. The only action taken under this order of reference was the issuance of a summons to the defendant. After the defendants moved to dismiss for failure to state a claim, the district court referred this motion to a magistrate judge under § 636(b)(1)(B). After the magistrate judge issued her report and recommendations, in Newsome’s objections to the magistrate’s report and recommendations, Newsome argued that the reference to the magistrate was improperly made without the parties’ consent, as required by § 636(c), and raises this argument again on appeal.

The reference to the magistrate of the defendants’ motion to dismiss for failure to state a claim was made under § 636(b)(1)(B). The consent of the parties is not required under this section. This reference was not improper. The prior reference under § 636(c) did require the consent of the parties. To the extent that Newsome did not consent to this reference, any error that resulted was harmless. The only action taken under this reference was the issuance of a summons to the defendants, which did not prejudice Newsome in any way.

[*231] III

Newsome also sought a writ of mandamus under 28 U.S.C. § 1361 to compel the EEOC to reopen her case, investigate her charge further and ask particular questions. The district court denied this writ, and dismissed the complaint.

Mandamus is awarded only “in the exercise of a sound judicial discretion.” Duncan Townsite Co. v. Lane, 245 U.S. 308, 311, 38 S.Ct. 99, 62 L.Ed. 309 (1917). “A district court’s decision not to exercise jurisdiction under the mandamus statute for federal officers, 28 U.S.C. § 1361, is a discretionary one,” which is reviewed for abuse of discretion. Franchi v. Manbeck, 972 F.2d 1283, 1289 (Fed.Cir.1992).

A writ of mandamus is an “extraordinary remedy.” Adams v. Georgia Gulf Gorp., 237 F.3d 538, 542 (5th Cir.2001). “Mandamus is not available to review discretionary acts of agency officials.” Green v. Heckler, 742 F.2d 237, 241 (5th Cir.1984). Further, in order to be granted a writ of mandamus, “[a] plaintiff must show a clear right to the relief sought, a clear duty by the defendant to do the particular act, and that no other adequate remedy is available.” U.S. v. O’Neil, 767 F.2d 1111, 1112 (5th Cir.1985) (quoting Green, 742 F.2d at 241).

Here, although Title VII provides that the EEOC “shall make an investigation” of a charge filed, see 42 U.S.C. § 2000e-5(b), it does not prescribe the manner for doing so. The EEOC did investigate Newsome’s charge, though not to her satisfaction. However, “the nature and extent of an EEOC investigation into a discrimination claim is a matter within the discretion of that agency.” E.E.O.C. v. Keco Industries, Inc., 748 F.2d 1097, 1100 (6th Cir.1984) (citing E.E.O.C. v. St. Anne’s Hospital, 664 F.2d 128 (7th Cir.1981); E.E.O.C. v. General Electric Co., 532 F.2d 359 (4th Cir.1976); E.E.O.C. v. Chicago Miniature Lamp Works, 526 F.Supp. 974 (N.D.Ill.1981)). Because the nature and extent of the investigation are discretionary, Newsome does not have a “clear right” to a writ of mandamus.

Newsome also is not entitled to the writ because she has another adequate remedy available, i.e. she could file suit in court against her employer. For these reasons, the district court did not abuse its discretion in denying the writ.

IV

The district court also dismissed Newsome’s claims under Title VII, the APA, § 1985, and the Fourteenth Amendment. The court dismissed these claims under § 1915(e)(2)(B)© and (ii) for frivolity and failure to state a claim, respectively. We review a determination that a case is frivolous under § 1915(e)(2)(B)® for abuse of discretion. Siglar v. Hightower, 112 F.3d 191, 193 (5th Cir.1997). Newsome’s in forma pauperis complaint “may be dismissed as frivolous if it lacks an arguable basis in law or fact. A complaint lacks an arguable basis in law if it is based on an indisputably meritless legal theory, such as if the complaint alleges the violation of a legal interest which clearly does not exist.” Id. (citations omitted). We review a dismissal for failure to state a claim under § 1915(e)(B)(ii) de novo, applying the same standard used to review a dismissal pursuant to Fed.R.Civ.P. 12(b)(6). Moore v. Carwell, 168 F.3d 234, 236 (5th Cir.1999) (citation omitted). We must assume that the plaintiffs factual allegations are true, and may uphold the dismissal of New-some’s claims only if it appears that no relief could be granted under any set of facts that could be proven consistent with the allegations. Id. (citations omitted).

[*232] First we address Newsome's Title VII claims. Newsome alleges that the EEOC deprived her of "her rights under Title VII. To the extent that Newsome is attempting to invoke Title VII as a jurisdictional basis for suing the EEOC, she cannot do so. We have held that Title VII does not confer on a charging party a right of action against the EEOC. See Gibson v. Missouri Pac. R.R., 579 F.2d 890, 891 (5th Cir.1978) (“Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C.A. § 2000e-5 et seq., confers no right of action against the enforcement agency. Nothing done or omitted by EEOC affected [plaintiffs] rights. Their adverse determination could not have precluded, and in fact did not preclude, the present suit by [plaintiff]. The relief sought of further investigation or action by the agency would be meaningless.”) Therefore it was proper for the district court to dismiss Newsome’s Title VII claims.

Newsome also sought relief under the APA. The APA allows for judicial review of “[a]gency action made reviewable by statute and final agency action for which there is no other adequate remedy in a court....” 5 U.S.C. § 704. The APA defines “agency action” to include “the whole or a part of an agency rule, order, license, sanction, relief, or the equivalent or denial thereof, or failure to act,” 5 U.S.C. § 551(13). The Supreme Court has addressed the meaning of “final agency action”:

As a general matter, two conditions must be satisfied for agency action to be “final”: First, the action must mark the “consummation” of the agency’s deci-sionmaking process—it must not be of a merely tentative or interlocutory nature. And second, the action must be one by which “rights or obligations have been determined,” or from which “legal consequences will flow.”

Bennett v. Spear, 520 U.S. 154, 177, 117 S.Ct. 1154, 137 L.Ed.2d 281 (1997) (citations omitted). The EEOC’s dismissal of Newsome’s complaint did not determine her rights or have legal consequences. It simply ended the agency’s investigation of her charge, and notified Newsome of her right to pursue her claim in court. Any final determination would occur in court. Therefore, there is no final agency action here, and no review available under the APA.

Newsome also alleged that the EEOC and CHM engaged in a conspiracy to deprive her of her civil rights, in violation of 42 U.S.C. § 1985(3). “To state a claim under § 1985(3), Appellant must allege that two or more persons conspired to directly, or indirectly, deprive him of the equal protection of the laws or equal privileges and immunities under the laws.” Green v. State Bar of Texas, 27 F.3d 1083, 1089 (5th Cir.1994). Further, to state a § 1985(3) claim, Newsome must allege that the conspirators were motivated by her race. See Slavin v. Curry, 574 F.2d 1256, 1262 (5th Cir.1978), modified on other grounds, 583 F.2d 779 (5th Cir.1978), overruled on other grounds, Sparks v. Duval County Ranch Co., 604 F.2d 976 (5th Cir.1979) (en banc), aff'd 449 U.S. 24, 101 S.Ct. 183, 66 L.Ed.2d 185 (1980). Newsome has not done so. She seems to complain because the EEOC did not find in her favor on her charge, and she makes extremely vague allegations of a “personal business relationship” between CHM and the EEOC. This simply is not enough to allege a conspiracy.

Finally, Newsome alleges that the EEOC deprived her of her Fourteenth Amendment rights. However, the Fourteenth Amendment applies only to state actors, not federal actors. See Bolling v. Sharpe, 347 U.S. 497, 499, 74 S.Ct. 693, 98 L.Ed. 884 (1954). Newsome therefore[*233] cannot bring a Fourteenth Amendment claim against the EEOC or EEOC officials. Further, the United States and its officials are entitled to sovereign immunity for the civil rights claims brought by New-some, “because the United States has not consented to suit under the civil rights statutes.” Unimex, Inc. v. U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, 594 F.2d 1060, 1061 (5th Cir.1979).

In sum, Newsome’s complaint has no arguable basis in fact or law, and no relief could be granted to her under any set of facts consistent with her allegations. The complaint is frivolous, fails to state a claim, and was properly dismissed. Newsome’s claims are completely without merit, and this appeal is frivolous.

V

Normally, we recognize that a pro se plaintiff does not have the same training as an attorney, and accord a pro se plaintiff some measure of latitude in her complaint and in the errors she might make. However, Newsome previously has brought an almost identical complaint against the EEOC, which was dismissed in part for failure to state a claim. In Newsome v. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, 1998 WL 792502 (N.D.Tex.) (“Newsome I”), Newsome had filed a charge of race discrimination under Title VII with the EEOC against a former employer, Floyd West & Company (“FWC”). The EEOC investigated the charge, found there to be no violation of Title VII, and issued Newsome a right to sue letter. Id. at *1. Newsome sued FWC, and a take nothing judgment was rendered against her. Five years later, Newsome brought a pro se lawsuit against the EEOC, FWC, and Talegen Holdings, Inc. (“Talegen,” an affiliate of FWC), alleging that the EEOC failed to investigate the merits of her discrimination charge, and “conspired with FWC and Talegen to deprive her of her civil rights in violation of Title VII, the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution ... and 42 U.S.C. §§ 1983 and 1985.” Id. at *1. The court found that Title VII did not confer jurisdiction over cases brought by an individual against the EEOC as an enforcement agency, and that Title VII does not confer a right of action against the EEOC as an enforcement agency. The court further found that there is no cause of action against federal agencies or officials under the Fourteenth Amendment, and that Newsome had no § 1983 claim because the EEOC officials were not acting under the color of state law, as required for a § 1983 claim. The court also found the EEOC to be entitled to sovereign immunity. The court did not reach the merits of the § 1985 claim, because it was barred by the statute of limitations. The court dismissed Newsome’s complaint for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, failure to state a claim and on sovereign immunity grounds. Id. at *5. We affirmed, for the reasons stated in the district court’s opinion. See Newsome v. E.E.O.C., No. 98-11381, 1999 WL 423085 (5th Cir. June 3, 1999); 182 F.3d 915. The United States Supreme Court denied certiorari. See Newsome v. E.E.O.C., 528 U.S. 917, 120 S.Ct. 273, 145 L.Ed.2d 229 (1999).

The merits of Newsome’s Title VII and Fourteenth Amendment claims were addressed in her prior lawsuit, and are virtually identical to the claims before us. Newsome therefore was on notice that these claims fail to state a claim upon which relief could be granted. Newsome now is on notice that her APA and § 1985 claims also fail to state a claim, and that all her claims are frivolous. This appeal is frivolous as well. We therefore are putting Newsome on NOTICE that if she continues to bring such frivolous appeals in[*234] the future, this court will consider sanctioning her pursuant to our inherent sanction powers and our powers to sanction frivolous appeals. See F.R.A.P. 38.

VI

For the foregoing reasons, this frivolous appeal is

DISMISSED.

1

. The statute provides:

This subchapter shall not apply to ... a religious corporation, association, educational institution, or society with respect to the employment of individuals of a particular religion to perform work connected with the carrying on by such corporation, association, educational institution, or society of its activities.

42 U.S.C. § 2000e-l(a).