Massive Union Scandal Exposed – Powerful Leaders Indicted for Stealing Millions

Indictment

Former leaders of Duval Teachers United face federal charges for embezzling over $2 million from union members, exposing a decade-long scheme of fraud and conspiracy.

At a Glance

  • Terrie Brady and Ruby George indicted on conspiracy, wire fraud, and mail fraud charges
  • Over $2.6 million allegedly stolen through fraudulent vacation time claims
  • Brady faces additional money laundering charges
  • Both could face up to 20 years in prison per count if convicted
  • Case highlights concerns over union financial transparency and management

Former Union Leaders Indicted in Multimillion-Dollar Fraud Scheme

In a startling turn of events, two former leaders of the Duval Teachers United (DTU) in Jacksonville, Florida, have been indicted on federal charges for their alleged involvement in a massive fraud scheme. Teresa Brady and Ruby George, who served as President and Executive Vice President respectively, are accused of conspiring to steal over $2 million from the union’s coffers between 2013 and 2022.

The indictment, unveiled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, charges both women with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud, as well as multiple counts of aiding and abetting wire and mail fraud. Brady faces additional charges of money laundering, further complicating her legal predicament.

The Alleged Scheme: Unearned Leave and False Audits

According to federal prosecutors, Brady and George orchestrated a complex scheme to defraud the union of more than $1.2 million each. The primary method involved selling back unearned leave time, a practice that went undetected for years due to their high-ranking positions within the organization. To conceal their actions, the pair allegedly provided false information to auditors and engaged in the dubious practice of signing each other’s checks.

“We think we’re pretty transparent in the work that we do” – Brady

This statement by Brady, made prior to the indictment, now rings hollow in light of the serious allegations against her. The case underscores the importance of rigorous financial oversight within union structures and the potential for abuse when such systems fail.

Potential Consequences and Broader Implications

If convicted, the consequences for Brady and George could be severe. Each count of conspiracy, wire fraud, and mail fraud carries a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison. Brady’s additional money laundering charges could result in an extra 10 years per count. The indictment also seeks forfeiture of at least $2,600,235.99, believed to be the proceeds of the fraudulent activities.

“Having partisan groups basically get special privileges for deductions and all these other stuff, you know, that doesn’t work and so, I think this will be a huge, huge boon for transparency and efficiency in our school system” – DeSantis

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’s comments on the need for greater union transparency have gained new relevance in light of this case. The scandal has reignited debates about financial accountability in teachers’ unions and the potential for misuse of member dues.

A Pattern of Union Corruption?

The DTU case bears striking similarities to past instances of union fraud, such as the Washington Teachers’ Union scandal in the early 2000s. In that case, union officials were accused of embezzling millions, highlighting a disturbing pattern of financial misconduct in some teachers’ unions.

The FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation are spearheading the investigation into the DTU case, signaling the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating these allegations. As the legal process unfolds, the case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stringent financial controls and transparency in all union operations.

As this story continues to develop, it raises important questions about the oversight of union finances and the trust placed in union leadership. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for how teachers’ unions operate and are monitored in the future, potentially leading to calls for reform and increased scrutiny of union financial practices nationwide.

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