Federal prosecutors have requested a six-month prison sentence for James Callahan, former president of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), after he pled guilty to failing to disclose $315,000 worth of event tickets and additional benefits in his annual reports to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Callahan, who served as IUOE’s general president from 2011 until his resignation in January, submitted false statements in LM-30 reports, which union officers are required to file to disclose potential conflicts of interest between their personal finances and their duties to the union and its members.

In their memorandum, the government emphasized the seriousness of Callahan’s actions, stating, “Defendant Callahan was well aware of his legal obligation to file accurate LM-30 reports, but year after year, he chose to prioritize his personal interests over his responsibilities to the union.”

The government further noted that Callahan’s actions resulted in the IUOE unknowingly funding his entertainment expenses, despite his substantial salary. Federal prosecutors urged U.S. District Judge Ana C. Reyes to impose a prison sentence to deter similar corrupt behavior among union officials.

Callahan expressed remorse in his own memorandum, seeking probation instead of jail time. He highlighted his community service efforts, including over 100 hours performed in Florida, and pledged to repay the $315,000 to the union. Callahan also referenced his leadership within the IUOE and his past contributions, including his work clearing debris from the World Trade Center after the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Despite Callahan’s plea for leniency, the government remains firm in its position that a meaningful sentence is necessary. They argued, “It is critical that courts impose meaningful punishment on offenders like defendant Callahan to deter such corrupt behavior by union officials.”

If the judge determines that a prison sentence is not appropriate, the government has requested that Callahan be fined $10,000 and complete a significant period of community service.

The case, United States v. James Callahan (case number 1:24-cr-00555), is currently before the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.