“The subway system is the backbone of New York City and the workers and contractors that keep it running deserve every dollar they earn,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Instead, we allege, Rocco Mechanical and its executives stole hundreds of hours’ worth of lawfully earned compensation from its employees by issuing paychecks reflecting the mandatory prevailing wage, but then brazenly requiring cash kickbacks from their own workers. I thank the MTA Inspector General’s Office and the New York City Comptroller’s Office for their partnership in ensuring that New Yorkers are paid what they are owed. I also thank the workers who came forward and urge anyone whose wages have been stolen to do the same. Call or message our Worker Protection Unit at (646) 712-0298.”

“Hard working New Yorkers deserve the wages they earn, and in the midst of an affordability crisis, every dollar counts,” said District Attorney Bragg. “If your wages are being stolen by your employer, or if you are being forced to work in unsafe conditions, our Worker Protection Unit is here to help: call or message us at (646) 712-0298.”

“George Cole stole hard-earned wages from workers who put hours of dedicated labor into construction projects, using the stolen money to purchase lavish personal items. Now, this defendant will return wages to the very workers he stole from,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Every worker in Manhattan deserves to receive each dollar they make, and my office will continue to create accountability for those who jeopardize that. We were also proud to use our Stolen Wage Fund to make these workers whole. To report wage theft, please call or message our Worker Protection Unit at (646) 712-0298.” 

“With this resolution, hardworking New Yorkers will be paid what they rightfully earned, and the unscrupulous owner of a construction company will not be able to bid on City contracts for three years,” said District Attorney Bragg. “I thank DOI for its partnership in rooting out fraud in our city contracts, especially in a field as critical and potentially dangerous as construction.”