A federal jury has delivered a guilty verdict on embezzlement charges against John Dougherty, dealing a severe blow to his reputation as a transformative labor leader in the region. This marks Dougherty's second felony conviction within a span of two years, further tarnishing his legacy.

The jury, consisting of seven women and five men, deliberated for approximately 14 hours over three days before concluding that while Dougherty publicly presented himself as a dedicated advocate for his union, Local 98 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, he was secretly embezzling funds from its members for personal gain.

According to the jury's findings, Dougherty, along with his co-defendant and trusted lieutenant, Brian Burrows, misspent over $600,000 on various expenses. These included lavish Atlantic City birthday celebrations, extensive home repairs, as well as everyday purchases such as groceries and household goods.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Costello expressed satisfaction with the jury's decision, stating, "All the members who paid these people's salaries basically had their pockets picked by them. We're glad we can finally hold them accountable."

This guilty verdict adds to Dougherty's legal troubles. Already facing up to a 20-year sentence for serious bribery charges from a separate trial in 2021, he now faces the possibility of additional prison time. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl has scheduled Dougherty's sentencing for both cases in March, while a third trial on extortion charges looms for the former labor leader.

Despite the mounting convictions, Dougherty remained stoic during the reading of the guilty verdicts, keeping his gaze downward and expressing his intention to appeal. He exchanged handshakes with Burrows and his attorneys before leaving the courtroom, expressing gratitude to the court staff.

Burrows, convicted on 21 counts, discreetly left the courthouse following the verdict. Attorney Mark A. Kasten, representing Burrows, questioned the government's actions, stating, "After 10 years of this and millions of dollars, what did [the government] actually do?" He believed that the union's members were not better off without their former leadership.

Dougherty's downfall not only affects his personal future but also complicates his once-celebrated legacy in Philadelphia politics and organized labor. Over nearly three decades as head of Local 98, Dougherty transformed the union into an influential force in elections, supporting numerous candidates who went on to hold statewide and local offices.

Despite the impact of Dougherty's actions, his successor Mark Lynch, the current business manager of Local 98, declined to comment. Ryan Boyer, head of the Philadelphia Building Trades Council, appeared saddened by the trial's outcome, acknowledging Dougherty's achievements but recognizing the jury's verdict.

Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented wiretapped phone calls where Dougherty seemed to revel in his role as a provider, showering his loved ones with union-funded perks. He used union funds to treat family members and close associates to meals, concert tickets, home renovations, and even paid them for work they never performed.

Dougherty's defense argued that some personal expenses charged to his Local 98 credit cards were oversights, given his busy schedule. However, prosecutors highlighted overwhelming evidence of routine graft, including over $100,000 in construction and repair costs billed to the union for work done on Dougherty's and Burrows' homes.

Anthony Massa, the contractor overseeing the jobs, testified that neither Dougherty nor Burrows requested a bill and instructed him to charge Local 98 instead. While Dougherty blamed Massa for influencing the jury's decision, emphasizing his label as a "liar and a fraudster," the guilty verdict stands as a testament to the principle that no one is above the law.

As Dougherty's legal troubles mount, the Philadelphia labor community and political landscape must grapple with the fallout of a once formidable figure. His sentencing will take place in March, determining the extent of his punishment for the embezzlement and bribery charges.