Illegal Pesticide Applications Land Florida Company and Owner in Hot Water
AAA Pest Protection Inc., a pest control company based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and its owner, William Robles, 59, have been sentenced in federal court for their roles in illegal pesticide applications. The company and Robles were charged with violating federal law by using a restricted use pesticide, sulfuryl fluoride, contrary to the label’s safety requirements.
The investigation revealed that on two separate occasions in 2016, AAA Pest and Pierce Long, a former employee, completed structural fumigations without providing residents with proper warnings, failed to use personal protective equipment for employees, and failed to properly aerate the fumigated spaces. They also failed to post required hazard warnings and failed to conduct clearance before residents re-entered the fumigated spaces.
Robles admitted that between March 21, 2013, and April 17, 2015, he failed to have the required, operable, and properly calibrated fumigant detection device for approximately 580 fumigations.
AAA Pest Protection Inc. was sentenced to five years of probation, ordered to implement and enforce a comprehensive environmental compliance and employee training plan, and ordered to pay a $35,000 criminal fine. The company was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims of the crimes.
Robles was sentenced to the statutory maximum term of imprisonment of one year and ordered to pay a criminal fine of $30,000. Long, 53, of Oakland Park, Florida, was previously sentenced to a year in prison in a related matter.
The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Benjamin G. Greenberg, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, Atlanta Area Office, made the announcement.
This case highlights the importance of following federal environmental laws and regulations, particularly when it comes to the use of restricted use pesticides. The consequences of non-compliance can be severe, and companies and individuals who engage in such conduct will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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