Former union rep. charged with threats, embezzlement

Federal prosecutors have charged the former business representative of a local union representing wharf workers, dockbuilders and pile drivers, with embezzling union funds.

In an indictment unsealed today, authorities say Victor N. Rovani III, 34, formerly of Port Richmond, embezzled $5,322 of Local 454's funds for his personal benefit between March and December of 2009.

In addition, the indictment said Rovani physically and verbally threatened a union member, identified only as "M.D." in the indictment.

The indictment said Rovani allegedly interfered with the member's rights to participate in union affairs and express his views during two membership meetings of Local 454 in June and July 2010.

Rovani, now living in Miami, was arrested there today and appeared before a federal magistrate.

He was released on bond.

If convicted of all charges, Rovani potentially faces a sentence of probation to 10 months in a federal lockup.