Lyons, CO – Glenn Demarest, owner and operator of ARS, and his company, Annabelle’s Restoration, have been sentenced following a criminal investigation into an illegal asbestos abatement project in Lyons, Colorado. The case, brought forth by the Colorado Environmental Crimes Task Force, revealed a pattern of deceit and negligence that put residents at risk.
According to court documents, Demarest forged a certification document falsely claiming ARS was a certified asbestos abatement company. This allowed the company to secure a contract for the abatement project, despite lacking the necessary qualifications and training to safely handle the hazardous material. A subsequent inspection by a legitimate asbestos abatement contractor revealed that ARS had failed to properly remove all identified asbestos from the property, leaving a potential health hazard for future occupants.
The investigation, initiated in October 2011, uncovered multiple violations of Colorado state law. Demarest was initially charged with violating the Air Quality Control Act, criminal impersonation, forgery of a government-issued document, and theft. Annabelle’s Restoration faced three felony counts related to the fraudulent activity. The severity of the charges reflected the potential for serious health consequences associated with improper asbestos handling.
After months of legal proceedings, both Demarest and Annabelle’s Restoration entered guilty pleas. Demarest specifically pleaded guilty to criminal impersonation on March 16, 2012. Annabelle’s Restoration pleaded guilty to one count of violating the Air Quality Act General Provision on May 4, 2012. The company’s actions demonstrated a disregard for both public safety and environmental regulations.
Sentencing and Restitution
On June 15, 2012, Demarest received a sentence of 60 months probation and was ordered to pay $326 in restitution. Annabelle’s Restoration was fined $10 and ordered to pay $1,990 in restitution. While the financial penalties seem relatively low, legal experts suggest the probation sentence and restitution aim to deter future fraudulent practices and compensate for damages caused by the improper abatement.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unqualified contractors performing hazardous material abatement. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, poses significant health risks when disturbed, and proper handling requires specialized training and equipment. The Colorado Environmental Crimes Task Force continues to investigate and prosecute individuals and companies who prioritize profit over public safety.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Glenn Demarest, Owner/Operator of ARS & Annabelle’s Restoration
- Location: Lyons, Colorado
- Year: 2012
- Statutes Violated: Air Quality Control Act, Criminal Impersonation, Forgery of a Government Issued Document, Theft
- Penalties: Demarest – 60 months probation, $326 restitution. Annabelle’s Restoration – $10 fine, $1,990 restitution
- Details: Forged asbestos certification, improper abatement leaving hazardous materials on site.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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