Hollywood Teamsters Take Precautions Due to ‘Threat of Violence’

Citing a threat of violence, leaders of the Hollywood Teamsters are taking precautionary steps for the union’s upcoming general membership meeting on Oct. 23 at Pickwick Gardens in Burbank.

The announcement was made by Local 399 on Friday, two days after the incumbent slate was re-elected in a landslide vote following a spirited campaign. Steve Dayan, who easily won a second three-year term as secretary-treasurer, told Variety that the threat of violence against members had been made on social media during the latter stages of the campaign, which will result in increased security at the meeting.

“We are taking precautionary steps because I am obligated to take the safety of our members seriously,” he said. “I hope and pray that it was an empty threat.”

Local 399 reps more than 4,500 drivers, location managers, animal wranglers, and casting directors, mostly in the Los Angeles area.

“Unfortunately due to a threat of violence we will be limiting this meeting to ACTIVE Members only in good standing,” the notice said. “All Members will need to be checked in before being admitted into the meeting. Please arrive early to ensure our Meeting starts on time with the additional check in procedure. You must be an active Member in good standing to attend. No non-Member spouses, friends, guests, Retirees, or Members on withdrawal status will be permitted.”

“Please note this is not a permanent change. This decision was made to ensure the safety of our Membership and to minimize the chance of violence and/or threats against Members.”

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