A Massachusetts man trusted to manage his union’s finances instead used that access to quietly drain nearly $50,000 from the accounts — and what he spent the money on raises serious questions.
Who Is He?
Joe Scott Jr., 55, of Leominster, Massachusetts, served as treasurer of the International Union of Electrical Workers, Local 81154 — a Gardner-based labor union representing workers across the Commonwealth.
What Did He Do?
Federal prosecutors say Scott used his position to steal approximately $49,559 from the union through:
- Unauthorized debit card purchases
- Personal cash withdrawals
- Checks written from union accounts for his own benefit
What Did He Spend the Money On?
This is where it gets personal. Scott reportedly used stolen union funds for:
- Storage unit costs
- Home internet and cell phone bills
- Electricity and gas services
- Home improvement tools
- Dumpster rental
- Personal vacation expenses
Not lavish spending — everyday bills that working union members’ dues were never meant to cover.
What’s His Punishment?
On May 1, 2026, U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman sentenced Scott to:
- 42 months probation
- 6 months home confinement
- $49,559 in restitution — the full amount stolen
Scott had pleaded guilty in January 2026 to one count of embezzlement from a labor union.
Why It Matters
The union Scott stole from represents hardworking employees across Massachusetts. The case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Union members trust their treasurers with dues collected from every paycheck. Scott broke that trust — and now faces years of probation and a nearly $50,000 repayment order.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
