Bronx-based employees of a large security company remain unpaid weeks after the business closed last month without warning.
Westech Security and Investigations, which had an office on East Tremont, shuttered while owing many of its workers up to $1,000. However, the former employees are not the only ones who appear to have been duped — so too have investors and local check cashing companies, the Bronx Times has learned. Meanwhile, other security companies throughout the city are stepping in to help the former employees who were swindled.
In the weeks since Bronx Times broke the story about the closure, Westech owner/CEO William Vassell has come under fire and is facing questions from many former employees. Meanwhile, investors in the company and local check cashing companies—who had the firm on a blacklist—are also seeking answers as to how they will recoup lost funds.
Former security guards, who rallied on Sept. 10 to demand their pay outside the closed office, said they have not received an explanation or apology from their former employer. While Vassell told the Bronx Times he has talked to “anyone who asked,” most have heard nothing.
“I feel very hurt about what me and my coworkers went through,” said former security guard Davina Roache in text messages to the Bronx Times on Oct. 2. “I can’t believe they got away with this and haven’t even reach[ed] out to the workers.”
Roache said she applied for unemployment, but it has been difficult and slow, and she cannot afford to pay her bills.
“I am so hurt! I can’t believe we are still subject to free labor in America,” said Roache.
Breach of contract
Several former Westech employees have filed complaints with the state Department of Labor, which confirmed it is gathering information.
In a call with the Bronx Times on Oct. 3, Vassell said he has provided payroll information to the federal Department of Labor and that he believes it’s possible for employees to receive the…
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