Algona Contractor Admits Asbestos Cover-Up

ALGONA, IA – A North Central Iowa man is facing federal time after admitting he deliberately skirted environmental regulations during the gutting of the former Kossuth County Home. Gary Christianson, 57, of Algona, Iowa, pled guilty yesterday to a single count of failing to notify authorities about the presence of asbestos in the building before renovations began.

The charge stems from work conducted between November 2014 and January 2015. Christianson, operating as the renovation contractor, knowingly failed to inform both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) that the old Kossuth County Home contained hazardous asbestos, both wrapped around pipes and embedded within the floor tiles. Federal law mandates such notification to ensure proper handling and disposal of the dangerous material, protecting workers and the public.

Court documents reveal Christianson’s willful disregard for these regulations. He proceeded with demolition and renovation activities without the required permits or safety protocols, potentially exposing himself, his crew, and the surrounding community to airborne asbestos fibers. Asbestos exposure can lead to severe respiratory illnesses, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

The case was spearheaded by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division, who uncovered the violations and built the case against Christianson. Assistant United States Attorneys Tim Vavricek and Matt Cole are prosecuting the matter. Federal investigators are increasingly focused on holding accountable those who prioritize profit over public safety and environmental protection.

Christianson remains free on bond while awaiting sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard Strand. A presentence report will be prepared to assess the severity of the offense and the defendant’s background. He faces a maximum sentence of two years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, $100 in special assessments, and a year of supervised release following any potential incarceration.

Those seeking further details on the case can access court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 16-CR-3055-LTS. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Iowa can be followed on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.