Las Vegas, NV – Gonzalo Aguilar Doblado was sentenced in April 2022 for knowingly violating federal regulations concerning the handling of hazardous asbestos-containing materials during renovation projects in Las Vegas. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), reveals a pattern of disregard for public health and safety, with Doblado repeatedly failing to adhere to established asbestos abatement protocols.
According to court documents, Doblado was employed by Bobby Khalili in 2016 to renovate an apartment complex. During the renovation, workers under Doblado’s direction improperly removed regulated asbestos-containing material (RACM), including wall texture and acoustic ceiling tiles, from multiple apartments. Crucially, the removed material was not handled or disposed of in accordance with Clean Air Act (CAA) standards. Investigators found that dry RACM was deposited into an open dumpster within the complex’s courtyard, allowing asbestos-laden dust to be released into the surrounding air.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Records show that in 2014, Doblado oversaw a similar renovation project that was halted by local authorities after asbestos materials were discovered on site. Clark County personnel at that time specifically instructed Doblado on the proper procedures for handling RACM during renovations, highlighting a clear awareness of the legal requirements and a subsequent deliberate choice to ignore them in the 2016 incident. The EPA’s criminal enforcement action underscores the agency’s commitment to pursuing individuals who knowingly endanger communities by flouting environmental regulations.
Legal Ramifications
Doblado was found to have violated 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) of the Clean Air Act, which specifically addresses the failure to follow proper notification, work practice, and disposal requirements when handling asbestos-containing materials. These regulations are in place to prevent the release of asbestos fibers, a known carcinogen, into the environment and protect public health.
The sentencing, handed down on April 6, 2022, saw Doblado receive five months of incarceration, served at the time of arrest, and one year of supervised release. While the prison term was relatively short, the case serves as a warning to contractors and renovators that intentional violations of asbestos regulations will be met with criminal penalties. The EPA continues to prioritize the safe removal and disposal of asbestos, particularly in densely populated areas like Las Vegas, where improper handling can pose a significant public health risk.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Gonzalo Aguilar Doblado
- Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
- Year of Offense: 2016 (with prior violation in 2014)
- Crime: Improper removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) – Clean Air Act
- Penalty: Five months incarceration (time served), one year supervised release.
- Prior Knowledge: Doblado was informed of proper asbestos handling procedures by Clark County in 2014.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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