(WXYZ) — UAW Vice President Norwood Jewell took illegal payments from Fiat Chrysler executives to "serve his own interests," federal prosecutors say.
Prosecutors say Jewell took cigars, big steaks, first class airfare, rounds of golf, villas, lavish entertainment and personalized bottles of wine. Jewell is accused of violating the trust of fellow UAW members.
Additionally, other illegal benefits include a $25,065 "decadent party" for labor leaders, 8,926.93 for a three-bedroom villa in Palm Springs, California and a $2,182 Beretta shotgun.
During the party, attendees received personalized bottles of wine, with a special label inscribed with the statement: "MADE ESPECIALLY FO RYOU BY UAW VICE PRESIDENT NORWOOD JEWELL IN THE USA."
Prosecutors are asking that Jewell be sentenced to 15 months of prison and given a substantial fine.
Jewell's attorney compared him to the captain of the Titanic, saying he "accepted responsibility for his role," and "decided he'd be among the dead," and should be spared from a prison sentence.
View the prosecution sentencing memo below:
Jewell Prosecution Sentencing Memo by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit on Scribd
View the defense sentencing memo below:
Jewell Defense Sentencing Memo by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit on Scribd
