Teamsters President James P. Hoffa placed Local 115 in Philadelphia in trusteeship and removed its top executive Nov. 14, citing an abuse of member rights and failure to protect union finances.
The union is accused of engaging in intimidation and assault of members; purchasing weapons; conducting surveillance of members; failing to enforce collective bargaining agreements; and operating the local for the personal benefit of the principal officer, John P. Morris, and his family.
Pending further investigation, Morris has been removed as secretary-treasurer of the local, which represents 2,700 members under 65 contracts.
The Teamsters’ national office said Local 115 officials used union resources to create “a climate of fear and intimidation among members — including the assault of at least three members.” It noted of the numerous allegations, the most startling was the revelation that member dues were used to purchase two shotguns, 20 stun guns, a supply of pepper spray and paramilitary gear.
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