UAW to sell lake home built for ex-president under scrutiny

DETROIT (AP) — The United Auto Workers said it has accepted an offer on a lakefront house in northern Michigan, three months after federal prosecutors warned that it could be confiscated as part of a corruption investigation.

Cabin 4 at a UAW conference center on Black Lake was being built for former union President Dennis Williams, who retired in 2018. The home’s design plan included granite counters, stainless-steel appliances, a fireplace, wine cooler and a hidden storage room.

While the property was listed at $1.3 million, the U.S. Attorney's Office in March filed an affidavit in Cheboygan County, warning that the government had facts that could terminate an interest in the property.

Property traced to law violations is “subject to forfeiture to the United States," the affidavit states without disclosing any other details.

“It is common for the government to file one on any property they belief may be involved in a crime,” explained Jorin Rubin, a Detroit-area lawyer who specializes in forfeiture law.

UAW spokesman Brian Rothenberg said the buyer has no affiliation with the UAW. He didn't disclose a price.

Gina Balaya, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Attorney's Office, said the affidavit on the property will be removed “at the appropriate time.” She said the deal requires some local and state approval because of lake access and land division.

"We have absolutely no reason to believe the government is interested in blocking the sale, and we have been working cooperatively with the government to finalize the sale,” Rothenberg said.

The government's corruption probe has greatly embarrassed the UAW. Ten union officials and a late official’s spouse have pleaded guilty since 2017, including Gary Jones, who succeeded Williams as president and served for...