John Dougherty, once a powerful figure as the former boss of Philadelphia’s electrical workers union, has been sentenced to six years in prison on federal bribery and embezzlement convictions. The sentencing took place at the Reading federal courthouse, administered by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl following testimony from both prosecutors and Dougherty’s legal team. Dougherty has until September 4th to report to prison.
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For decades, Dougherty wielded influence in city politics and organized labor before facing federal indictments exposing a history of bribery and funds misuse while serving as the business manager of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 98. The recent sentencing addresses two out of the three cases brought against Dougherty since his 2019 indictment.
Federal prosecutors initially sought a longer sentence of 11 to 14 years for Dougherty, along with potential fines of up to $2.25 million, including restitution to Local 98. However, the judge ordered an initial $50,000 payment in restitution to the union, with the full amount to be determined later. Dougherty must also complete three years of supervised release and 100 hours of community service post-prison.
While Dougherty’s lawyer, Greg Pagano, argued for leniency citing his client’s contributions to the union and the city, Dougherty himself accepted responsibility for his actions during the sentencing. Numerous supporters, including former Gov. Ed Rendell and City Councilmember Mark Squilla, showed up at the hearing to back Dougherty, known affectionately as Johnny Doc.
The conviction of Dougherty and former City Councilmember Bobby Henon on bribery charges in 2021 unveiled a scheme where Dougherty provided Henon favors in exchange for political support. The conviction also exposed embezzlement of over $600,000 in union funds for personal use, leading to Dougherty’s resignation and a subsequent shake-up in leadership.
The third federal case against Dougherty ended in a mistrial, centering around threats made against a contractor in connection to the construction of Live! Casino. U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero criticized Dougherty’s actions, stating that Philadelphians deserve better than corrupt union bosses and politicians prioritizing personal gain.
In addition to his prison sentence, Dougherty was ordered to pay restitution and face supervised release upon completion of his prison term. His co-defendants also received penalties in connection to the crimes. Despite maintaining his innocence throughout the legal battle, Dougherty expressed remorse during the sentencing.