On October 17, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the sentencing of several executives and a corporation involved in what it described as a conspiracy related to price-fixing, bid-rigging, and job allocation in the ready-mix concrete industry in the Savannah, Georgia area. These allegations span from 2010 to 2016, with the government asserting that these activities impacted various construction projects, including residential, commercial, and public developments.
The individuals involved—James Clayton Pedrick, Gregory Hall Melton, John David Melton, and Timothy “Bo” Strickland—along with Evans Concrete LLC, were initially charged in September 2020. According to the DOJ, the case involved coordination on price increases, the allocation of ready-mix concrete jobs, and the submission of bids that allegedly restricted open competition. While some defendants, including Pedrick and Strickland, resolved their charges through plea agreements, others, like Gregory Hall Melton and John David Melton, were convicted following a trial.
Sentencing outcomes in cases of this nature can vary depending on numerous factors, including the specifics of each defendant’s individual role and the nature of their involvement in the conduct under investigation. Gregory Hall Melton received a sentence of 41 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $50,000 fine. John David Melton was sentenced to 26 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $10,000 fine. Strickland was sentenced to five months in prison and a $150,000 fine, while Pedrick received one year of probation. Evans Concrete LLC, which pleaded guilty, was ordered to pay a $2.7 million fine. Argos USA LLC entered into a deferred prosecution agreement and paid a $20 million criminal penalty for its role in the alleged conspiracy.
The government actively encourages citizens to report “suspicious activity” or potential bid-rigging schemes, underscoring the government’s focus on antitrust enforcement. Given the seriousness of these allegations and the complexity of antitrust laws, it is crucial for individuals or companies facing such accusations to seek experienced legal counsel early in the process.
If you or your business are being investigated for alleged antitrust violations, including bid-rigging, price-fixing, or market allocation, the potential consequences can be severe. A proactive approach to legal representation can help ensure your rights are protected, and an effective defense strategy is in place. Even if allegations seem straightforward, antitrust cases are complex, and securing the right counsel can make all the difference in navigating such investigations.
The attorneys at Chilivis Grubman represent clients of all types and sizes in connection with white-collar crime matters, government investigations, and antitrust-related cases. If you need assistance with such a matter, please contact us today.