Clapper, Patti, Schweizer and Mason

W.R. Grace, along with three former executives, were on trial for charges of knowingly exposing workers and residents of Libby, Montana to asbestos and interfering with federal clean up efforts. Until 1990 W.R. Grace owned and operated a mine in Libby that produced vermiculite that was contaminated with tremolite asbestos. They then manufactured various products with the deadly mineral, such as insulation and gardening mulch.

 

Asbestos is a known carcinogen that causes serious health diseases, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer. It is estimated that over 200 people in Libby have died of an asbestos related disease and thousands more remain sick as a result of exposure.

 

Prosecutors accused Grace of knowing that the asbestos containing vermiculite was hazardous to workers and members of the community and yet they concealed their knowledge in order to continue making a profit and to avoid any liability. Some of the evidence that prosecutors had hoped to present to the jury was not allowed, as well as controversy over a key witness’s testimony.   Defense attorneys argued there was no conspiracy, and that in fact, Grace took steps to be in compliance with the laws and standards required at the time to increase safety of its workers and the community.

 

After 11 weeks of testimony, the jury acquitted Grace and the remaining three executives left in the case.  Although this brings the criminal trial to an end, one remaining executive still awaits trial and civil cases are pending against Grace by residents of Libby who are seeking compensation for their asbestos related illnesses.