IATSE Local 80 Closed Its Offices After Receiving a Threatening Letter

IATSE Local 80 closed its offices Friday after receiving a threatening letter that purported to be from an out-of-work grip.

Letter Linked to WGA and SAG-AFTRA Strikes

The letter, which was postmarked on Wednesday, appeared to be related to the ongoing WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, said Dejon Ellis, Jr., the business manager of the union.

Scary and Concerning Contents

“He said some very scary things,” Ellis said. “He’s just mad. He says he’s out of work and homeless. He’s distraught. I don’t know if it’s a cry for help or not knowing how to control his anger.”

Targeted Threat Towards Local 80

Ellis said the threat was mostly aimed at Local 80, which represents grips and other below-the-line workers, but also made reference to the guild strikes in general.

Immediate Response by Local 80

The threat was first reported by Puck. Local 80 closed its offices, sent everyone home and notified other union locals.

Impact on IATSE West Coast Office and Events

The main West Coast office of IATSE also closed; some IATSE events scheduled for the weekend were canceled.

Police Investigation Underway

The Burbank Police Department was also notified and detectives were investigating.

Credibility and Validity of the Threat

“The threat was made against IATSE Local 80,” a police spokesman told Puck. “Burbank P.D. is aware and detectives are investigating the credibility and validity of the threat. No arrests have been made. IATSE, in an abundance of caution, have closed their offices today. No additional information is being released at this time.”

Impact of Strikes on Los Angeles

The strikes have caused most production to shutter in Los Angeles for the last three and a half months. The shutdown has taken a significant toll on below-the-line workers and businesses that rely on the entertainment industry. The Entertainment Community Fund has distributed more than $4.7 million to workers who have been left unemployed since May 2.