
Former leaders of Duval Teachers United indicted for stealing over $2 million from the union through fraud and money laundering.
At a Glance
- Teresa Brady and Ruby George, former President and Executive Vice President of Duval Teachers United, indicted on multiple fraud charges
- The pair allegedly stole over $2 million through wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering from 2013 to 2022
- If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison for each count of conspiracy, wire fraud, and mail fraud
- The case highlights concerns about financial practices and accountability within teachers’ unions
- The indictment follows public criticisms from Governor Ron DeSantis about union mismanagement
Charges and Allegations
Teresa Brady and Ruby George, former heads of the Duval Teachers United in Jacksonville, Florida, have been indicted on serious charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud. The indictment, which follows an extensive FBI investigation, alleges that the pair embezzled more than $2 million from the union between 2013 and 2022. Brady faces additional charges of money laundering, which could result in an extra 10 years of imprisonment for each count if convicted.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida is seeking forfeiture of at least $2,600,235.99, believed to be the proceeds from the alleged fraud. This case has sent shockwaves through the educational community, raising serious questions about the financial practices and accountability measures within teachers’ unions.
The Alleged Scheme
According to the indictment, Brady and George, who served as President and Executive Vice President of Duval Teachers United respectively, conspired to steal over $1.2 million each from the union. Their method allegedly involved selling back unearned leave time, a practice that was not authorized by the union’s bylaws or approved by its executive board.
“We think we’re pretty transparent in the work that we do,” Brady had previously stated, defending the union’s practices.
The pair allegedly concealed their actions by providing false information to auditors and signing each other’s checks. Brady is further accused of using the fraudulently obtained funds to pay off personal credit card debt. These allegations, if proven true, represent a significant betrayal of trust placed in union leadership by its members.
Wider Implications
This case is not isolated, as it follows a pattern of similar incidents involving teachers’ unions across the country. The Washington Teachers’ Union, for instance, faced its own scandal involving fraud and embezzlement charges against top officials. These cases underscore the need for greater oversight and transparency in union financial management.
“Having partisan groups basically get special privileges for deductions and all these other stuff, you know, that doesn’t work and so, I think this will be a huge, huge boon for transparency and efficiency in our school system,” stated Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who had previously criticized union management practices.
The indictment of Brady and George, who resigned after leading the union for 24 years, has added momentum to calls for increased accountability in union operations. Duval Teachers United, which represents about 13,000 teachers and school employees and is affiliated with major national education associations, now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and implementing stricter financial controls.
Ongoing Investigation
The case is currently under investigation by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. As the legal process unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of financial integrity in organizations entrusted with representing the interests of educators. The outcome of this case may have far-reaching implications for how teachers’ unions all across the country, operate and are overseen in the future.