Monitor Accuses Union of Stalling Cooperation in Corruption Cleanup Efforts
Detroit, MI – The United Auto Workers (UAW) is facing renewed scrutiny as its president, Shawn Fain, comes under investigation by a court-appointed watchdog. This development comes amidst ongoing efforts to eradicate corruption within the union following a major bribery and embezzlement scandal.
Watchdog Appointed After Past Corruption
Neil Barofsky, the court-appointed monitor tasked with overseeing the UAW’s reform efforts, disclosed the investigation into Fain and other senior officials in his ninth report submitted to Judge David M. Lawson on Monday. Barofsky’s role stems from a 2021 settlement designed to prevent a government takeover of the UAW after a series of corruption scandals. The earlier scandal involved eleven union officials and a spouse pleading guilty to bribery and embezzlement charges, with two former presidents even receiving prison sentences. The initial criminal charges in this wider probe date back to 2017.
Accusations of Stalled Cooperation and Internal Conflict
Barofsky’s report not only reveals the investigation into Fain but also accuses the UAW of a recent decline in cooperation with his monitoring duties. He claims this decline began earlier this year, coinciding with the launch of investigations into specific individuals.
The report, filed in a Detroit federal court, details recent clashes within the UAW’s International Executive Board. A key point of contention involves a February board decision that empowered Fain by removing certain field assignments from UAW secretary-treasurer Margaret Mock. The report highlights Mock’s denial of any wrongdoing and her claim that the removal was retaliatory for her refusal to approve certain financial expenditures potentially benefiting Fain’s office.
Expanding Investigation Scope
Barofsky’s investigation initially focused on Fain and Mock’s conflicting claims. However, the report reveals a broader investigation encompassing additional allegations. These include potential retaliation by Fain against a union vice president and a separate probe into a regional director for suspected embezzlement.
History of Cooperation Issues
This isn’t the first time the UAW has faced accusations of obstructing the court-appointed monitor’s efforts. In fact, Barofsky’s third report, filed in July 2022, alleged the union withheld information regarding previous misconduct allegations.
