Former Union Boss Arrested For Embezzlement In Montco
NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) - A former union leader from Montgomery County has been arrested after allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from the local he ran.
Thomas Wicker headed up AFSCME Local 2348, which represents workers at Norristown State Hospital. Prosecutors allege he stole more than $22,000 between 2007 and 2009 via more than 200 unauthorized ATM withdrawals as well as writing union checks to himself.
Montgomery County district attorney Risa Ferman believes Wicker used the money to pay personal expenses and says that he might have gotten away with it if not for his successor.
"It was not until a new president was installed who asked for the books," she said. "The books were refused, and then he had to start an investigation of his own to see what the finances of the union were."
Court records show the 51-year-old Pottstown man made withdrawals at local banks, convenience stores, and even several Atlantic City casinos.
Wicker was free on his own recognizance and scheduled to appear in court early next month.
Reported by Brad Segall, KYW Newsradio
