Monday, October 6, 2014

Ironworkers' guilty pleas detail arsons, intimidation at non-union job sites in Philadelphia



PHILADELPHIA –  A group of Philadelphia ironworkers dubbed "The Helpful Union Guys," or THUGS, admits destroying non-union construction sites as they pushed for union work.

Eight of the 12 ironworkers charged in a federal racketeering case this year have pleaded guilty in recent weeks.

They admit engaging in arson, assault and intimidation as they leaned on builders and contractors to hire them. The crimes include the arson of a Quaker meeting house just before Christmas in 2012.


Some of the ironworkers now face up to 20 years in prison for racketeering.

Defense lawyers say they were only trying to secure work to support their families.

Former Ironworkers Local 401 boss Joseph Dougherty plans to fight the charges. He goes on trial early next year.

Source: Fox News

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