NJDOL halts work by Somerset County contractor over alleged wage theft, labor violations
FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Somerset County) — The New Jersey Department of Labor has issued stop-work orders against a Somerset County contractor over alleged wage theft and labor law violations at two public projects, officials said.
Artur Alves Excavating Inc., based in Franklin Township, was ordered to halt work April 8 following an investigation into practices at The College of New Jersey in Ewing and the Cranford Public Library construction site.
At the College of New Jersey’s Forcina Hall project, the company, working as a subcontractor, was cited for alleged violations including failure to maintain accurate certified payroll records, failure to provide required prevailing wage documentation and a falsified certificate. Six workers were affected, according to officials.
At the Cranford Public Library project, investigators found additional alleged violations, including failure to pay prevailing wages, inaccurate payroll records, unpaid or late wages, missing time records and violations related to earned sick leave documentation. Twelve workers were affected, officials said.
The company has requested hearings on both stop-work orders.
“Wage theft and payroll fraud on public works projects betrays workers, taxpayers, and honest contractors,” said Assistant Commissioner Joseph Petrecca. “We will continue to vigorously enforce the state’s labor laws to protect the rights of every worker and hold bad actors accountable. Leveling the playing field for responsible employers strengthens New Jersey’s workforce and economy.”
Officials said stop-work orders are issued when work is being performed in violation of state labor laws and can remain in effect until outstanding wages and penalties are resolved.
Since July 2019, the Department of Labor’s Division of Wage and Hour Compliance has issued more than 200 stop-work orders as part of expanded enforcement authority.
Authorities said employers who continue operating in violation of a stop-work order may face civil penalties of up to $5,000 per day.
