HOUSTON, Texas — Former UTU President Byron A. Boyd Jr. pleaded guilty in federal court here Thursday, March 11, to one criminal count for which he was under indictment.

Boyd also retired from his positions as UTU president and president of the United Transportation Union Insurance Association (UTUIA).

“Today is a day of great sadness and personal regret,” Boyd said in a prepared statement issued following his plea. “I take full responsibility for my actions and make no excuses. What I have pleaded to is a burden that falls squarely on my shoulders, as it should. To all I am truly sorry for the anguish I have put you through.”

Boyd, along with former UTU President Charles Little, and two former UTUIA employees – Ralph Dennis and John Rookard – were principally charged last year by federal prosecutors with illegally accepting payments from attorneys who handle or had hoped to handle personal injury cases involving UTU members.

“My heart and prayers go out to all who have shown their love, kindness and support to my family and me,” Boyd said. “Your actions have been a light and confirmation of all that is good and I am most thankful.

“The UTU is truly blessed to have Paul Thompson and Dan Johnson now leading the international,” Boyd said. “They are deserving of unfaltering support. I know they will lead the organization with complete and unwavering dedication. My thoughts and prayers will forever be with the members and officers of the United Transportation Union.”