Equipment operator pleads in building collapse that killed 6 in store; contractor awaits trial
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A heavy equipment operator charged in a Philadelphia building collapse that killed six people and injured 12 has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and other charges.
Authorities have said 44-year-old Sean Benschop (BEN'-skop) was impaired by painkillers and marijuana when the wall collapse buried victims inside an adjacent Salvation Army store.
Prosecutors have agreed to recommend a sentence of not more than 10 to 20 years.
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The plea Tuesday resolves charges that included third-degree murder.
Fifty-year-old demolition contractor Griffin Campbell also faces murder charges in the June 2013 collapse.
Defense lawyers have previously called them scapegoats.
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Authorities have not charged building owner Richard Basciano, who hired Campbell's cut-rate bid for the work.