Jul 11, 2009 - Family Accused of Asbestos Violations Face Charges
Four members of a family, three brothers and their father, in Utica, New York are charged with multiple asbestos violations occurring over the last decade at various locations. Each member now faces prison sentences of up to 55 years as well as fines as high as $2.75 million.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used for many years in construction products because of its high heat insulation and fire resistance. When airborne, asbestos fibers can be inhaled or ingested, causing long term damage to the body. Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of developing serious diseases, such as asbestosis, mesothelioma and lung cancer.
The Mancuso Family is charged with violating several laws regarding removal and disposal of asbestos containing materials. Among the allegations are:
- Removal of asbestos without adequately wetting it down and sealing it
- Illegal disposal of friable (airborne) asbestos
- Failure to notify the National Response Center of release of friable asbestos
- Violation of the Clean Air Act and other asbestos related laws and regulations
- Failure to provide notification to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prior to removal of asbestos containing materials
- Failure to comply with OSHA regulations
- Providing fraudulent asbestos project notification documents to state Department of Labor and to clients
- Filing false business certificates
Ronald and Paul Mancuso, brothers, have pleaded guilty and neither will ever be allowed to be involved in asbestos abatement activities in the future. Brother Steven Mancuso is an attorney and is indicted as a co-conspirator by creating false documents. Father Lester Mancuso faces charges of knowingly and willingly performing or directing others to perform illegal asbestos abatement and disposal.
A trial is tentatively set for the fall in the U.S. District Court in Syracuse.
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