According to breaking news from various outlets, federal agents raided the Michigan home of United Auto Workers (UAW) union president Gary Jones today. The raid appears to be in connection with a broader probe that also includes for UAW president Dennis Williams.
According to a CNBC report today: “Federal agents raided the home of United Auto Workers President Gary Jones on Wednesday as the Justice Department expands its probe of corruption in the union’s top ranks while Detroit automakers renegotiate labor contracts for 158,000 employees…Jones’ home was one of several targets hit by federal agents Wednesday morning. Other locations in the multi-state raid included the California home of former UAW President Dennis Williams as well as the union’s training center, golf resort and conference center called Black Lake, FBI spokeswoman Mara Schneider said. The raids, across four states and in multiple locations, mark a major shift in the investigation from many former or retired union officials being targeted to active leaders.”
According to the Detroit News: “The searches are the latest expansion of a years-long investigation into bribes, kickbacks and attempts by auto executives to influence labor negotiations with the UAW. The investigation has led to charges against nine people and prison sentences for eight people linked to the UAW and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV.”
These raids are the latest events in a series involving the UAW. They also are unfolding as the UAW manages an ongoing decline in membership. Stay tuned to see if more unfolds on this as we head into the Labor Day weekend.
