One of the state’s largest construction contractor Glenn O’ Hawbaker Incorporated of State College is facing yet another legal challenge after being accused of illegally diverting pension money and other employee benefits.
Last month, Glenn O’ Hawbaker Inc, was granted a temporary reprieve in Commonwealth court from Penndot’s attempt to suspend the company from working on state road construction projects, for up to three years, but Penndot is now pursuing the suspension proposal in the state supreme court.
Filing an appeal last week to have the lower court ruling overturned. Hawbaker is a major player in Pennsylvania’s road building industry generating millions of dollars in business for the company.
But last year state Attorney General Josh Shapiro charged the company with four wage theft charges.
Hawbaker entered pleas of no contest not admitting guilt but did agree to pay nearly 20.7 million dollars in restitution.
Through a special administrative officer Penndot then moved to suspend Hawbaker claiming the company’s status as a pre-qualified contractor could be impacted by the theft charges.
So far though, Hawbaker has continued to bid on, and be awarded state construction contracts.
No word yet on any hearing dates on Penndot’s supreme court appeal.
