Beef Over Bonuses Sparks Plant Disturbance

SOUDERTON, Pa. - December 15, 2006 (WPVI) -- For a time Friday morning it looked like a prison riot scene. Police from 22 local agencies, many in riot gear, responded to an employee disturbance in the cafeteria of the old Moyer Meat Packing Plant.

The plant is now owned by Smithfield Hams out of Wisconsin.

Police say at least 100 employees became unruly during their morning break in a dispute over bonus checks, or the lack of bonus checks.

Steve Van Lannen, senior vice president, said the disturbance was sparked by a "miscommunication" about the timing of their bonus checks.

Before order was restored, two workers were taken into custody. There were no reported injuries, nor any damage.

Armando Ortiz, 43, of Allentown, was cited for disorderly conduct; a second man was taken into custody but released without charges.

A company spokesman says the bonus checks will be coming next week.

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