David Kellner, Misusing Union Funds, New York 2023

BUFFALO, N.Y. – A former union president has been caught with his hands in the till, and now he’s facing the consequences. David Kellner, 49, of Delevan, N.Y., the former president of the Transport Workers Local 2020, was sentenced to two years probation, to include six months of home detention, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy.

The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Special Agents of the United States Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, under the direction of Acting District Director Mark J. Neylon. The investigation found that Kellner had filed false invoices with the union, resulting in him being reimbursed over $12,000 for expenses he did not incur or were paid for by the national union or Kellner’s employer.

Kellner was convicted of filing a false financial report with the Secretary of Labor, a crime that carries severe penalties. The court ordered him to pay a fine of $2,000 and make restitution in the amount of $12,226 to the Transport Workers union.

The case against Kellner highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in union finances. As president of Transport Workers Local 2020 from 2006 through 2009, Kellner had a fiduciary duty to manage the union’s finances responsibly.

Instead, he chose to line his own pockets, filing false invoices and misusing union funds for personal gain. The consequences of his actions are now clear: two years of probation, six months of home detention, and a hefty fine.

Kellner’s case serves as a reminder that union officials who abuse their power will be held accountable. The Transport Workers Local 2020 has a responsibility to its members to ensure that their funds are used for the benefit of the union, not for personal gain.

The sentencing is a significant step in holding Kellner accountable for his actions. As the Transport Workers Local 2020 moves forward, it’s essential that they prioritize transparency and accountability to prevent similar cases of misusing union funds in the future.

Defendant: David Kellner

Criminal Charges: Filing a false financial report with the Secretary of Labor

City and State: Buffalo, N.Y.

Exact Date: Not specified

Sentence or Outcome: Two years probation, to include six months of home detention, fine of $2,000, and restitution of $12,226

Dollar Amounts: $12,000, $2,000, $12,226

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