By DEE-ANN DURBIN (AP)
June 11, 2020

Springdale, Arkansas-based Tyson Foods Inc. said it was served with a grand jury subpoena in April 2019 from the U.S. Department of Justice. Tyson said it conducted an internal investigation and turned over information to the Department of Justice. Tyson also said it is seeking a formal grant of leniency, which would mean that neither the company or its executives would face criminal fines or jail time.Last week, four current and former executives at Pilgrim’s Pride and Claxton Poultry Farms — including Pilgrim’s Pride President and CEO Jayson Penn — were indicted on charges of price fixing as a result of the long-running investigation.

Claxton said last week that the charges are without merit and it will vigorously defend itself. Pilgrim’s Pride said it is cooperating with the investigation. “Tyson Foods is committed to competing vigorously, honestly and in compliance with the letter and the spirit of the antitrust laws and respects the important role that the Department of Justice plays in enforcing these laws,” the company said in a statement.

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Pilgrim’s Pride Cooperation is also cooperating with a Justice Department investigation of alleged price fixing by suppliers to restaurant buyers. Chief executive of Pilgrim’s, Jayson Penn, has begun a leave of absence. Fabio Sandri will serve as interim CEO and president during Penn’s trial. Three executives from other companies, including Claston Poultry Farms, were indicted on the price-fixing charges according the Justice Department. All of the defendants have pleaded not guilty.