Attorney General Anne Lopez expressed her concern over the alleged embezzlement of union dues by Lilinoe Smith, stating, "Stealing from union members is a serious breach of trust. Union members expect that when they pay their dues that the money is being used for union business." Lopez also thanked the U.S. Department of Labor for their investigation and collaboration in prosecuting the matter.
Ed Oquendo, District Director of the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Labor-Management Standards, highlighted the importance of safeguarding union funds, stating, "We are committed to seeking justice on behalf of union members when anyone puts personal financial gain ahead of the best interests of their membership."
Smith's arraignment is set for Monday, May 13, and the case is identified as State v. Lilinoe Smith, 1CPC-24-0000444. If found guilty, Smith could face up to 10 years in prison and a fine not exceeding $25,000.
The alleged theft, totaling approximately $44,367, took place between October 2018 and July 2021. Smith is accused of stealing individual union members' dues money and falsifying union records to conceal the theft.
The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Labor-Management Standards has emphasized its commitment to investigating such allegations and ensuring financial integrity within unions.