Illinois quick hits: Rivian announces more layoffs; man charged for trafficking Masters merchandise

[April 18, 2024]  Rivian announces more layoffs
 
Rivian has announced more companywide layoffs. According to company officials, the layoffs will affect an additional 1% of the electric vehicle manufacturer’s workforce. The latest layoffs are in addition to the job cuts announced in February when Rivian said it was reducing its salaried workforce by 10%. The company said none of the layoffs are expected to affect hourly manufacturing workers in Normal.   

Drug bust in southern Illinois

Eight people have been arrested on suspicion of drug possession and distribution following an FBI investigation in southern Illinois. The arrests were made by the Southern Illinois Transnational Organized Crime West, which targets large-scale drug trafficking organizations. The suspects were from several cities, including Vandalia and Centralia.

Man charged for trafficking Masters merchandise

A man is facing federal charges in Illinois in connection with the transport of millions of dollars worth of Masters golf tournament merchandise taken from Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. A document filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois accuses Richard Globensky of transporting the items across state lines to Tampa, Florida. According to federal prosecutors, the items were taken from the famous golf club beginning in 2009.