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Embezzlement Scheme Rocks Labor Union
WASHINGTON DC – In a shocking turn of events, Donnell Owens, a 34-year-old former employee of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement and theft of labor union assets. According to court documents, Owens embezzled a staggering $275,524 from the labor union between October 2014 and June 2018.
As Secretary to the Director of Communications at AFGE, Owens had access to a union credit card linked to an Amazon account. He abused this position to make dozens of unauthorized personal purchases, including clothing, shoes, jewelry, and party supplies. Owens also used the credit card to purchase items from other online retailers for personal use, such as T-shirts for his online business, microphones, and flowers.
To avoid detection, Owens provided falsified signatures, fraudulent expense vouchers, and altered receipts for these items. However, the investigation revealed photos of Owens, his family members, and associates wearing the clothing purchased on Amazon with the union credit card on social media accounts belonging to the defendant.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anne P. McNamara of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Under federal sentencing guidelines, Owens faces a likely range of 24 to 30 months in prison, a fine of up to $95,000, and restitution. The Honorable Judge Reggie B. Walton scheduled sentencing for January 21, 2022.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency within labor organizations. As our investigation continues to uncover the depths of this scheme, we will work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
The case is a significant victory for the AFGE and its members, who deserve to know that their hard-earned money is being used for its intended purpose, not for personal gain.
Key Facts
- State: Washington DC
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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