David L. Barr, Embezzling Union Funds, Pittsburgh PA, 2023

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A Beaver County man is facing federal charges after being indicted for allegedly pilfering funds from the union he served. David L. Barr, 50, was named the sole defendant in an indictment unsealed today, accusing him of siphoning money from Local No. 99 of the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics & Allied Workers International Union, AFL-CIO, CLC.

The indictment alleges Barr, who held the position of Financial Secretary-Treasurer, cashed 19 employer dues remittance checks belonging to the union between April 9, 2010, and September 22, 2011. The total amount of funds allegedly stolen: $5,688.40. Prosecutors claim Barr then used the money for his own personal expenses – a betrayal of the trust placed in him by the union members he was supposed to represent.

United States Attorney David J. Hickton’s office announced the indictment, signaling a crackdown on internal theft within labor organizations. While the indictment marks a significant step, it’s crucial to remember that it’s simply an accusation. Barr is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The Department of Labor’s Office of Labor Management Standards spearheaded the investigation that led to these charges.

If convicted, Barr faces a stiff penalty. The law dictates a maximum sentence of five years in prison, alongside a potential fine of $250,000, or a combination of both. However, the actual sentence will be determined based on the severity of the offense and Barr’s criminal history, if any, according to federal sentencing guidelines. This isn’t just about the money; it’s about accountability for abusing a position of power.

Assistant United States Attorney Mary McKeen Houghton will be leading the prosecution, tasked with building a case to prove Barr’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case closely, providing updates as it progresses through the federal court system. Union funds are the lifeblood of workers’ rights and protections; any theft is a direct attack on those rights.

This case serves as a warning to anyone considering exploiting their position for personal gain. The Department of Justice, along with the Department of Labor, is committed to rooting out corruption within unions and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. Barr’s next court date has not yet been announced.

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