PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The U.S. Attorney’s Office has agreed to settle a lawsuit it filed against IBEW Local 98, the electricians union, alleging incumbents had threatened and intimidated challengers in elections for union leadership.
Under the settlement, the next union election in 2023 will be held under the supervision of U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh.
Frank Keel, union communications director, said Local 98 continues to deny the allegations in the suit.
“There was no admission of guilt by IBEW Local 98 in regards to our 2020 election,” he said. “It was proper, it was fair, it was honest. It was within the rules and regulations set forth by the Department of Labor and the Department of Justice.”
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He said the union is pleased with the settlement.
“We are happy to put this episode behind us with this settlement, and we’re proceeding to continue to do the good work for the members of IBEW Local 98,” he added.
The Justice Department alleged former business manager John Dougherty had pressured potential challengers into dropping out and made threats to members who were considering voting for the opposition.
Dougherty resigned in November after he was convicted of federal bribery charges.
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In a statement, acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams said, “Today’s agreement will help ensure every Local 98 member will have his or her voice heard in a free and fair officer election.”