New York, NY – Andre Parker, owner of Parker Environmental Management Group (PEMG), was sentenced to 48 months in prison and 36 months of probation in 2005 following a sprawling investigation into widespread asbestos abatement fraud across New York State. The case, which spanned several years and involved multiple co-conspirators, revealed a systematic scheme to falsify environmental testing results and illegally perform asbestos removal, putting public health at risk.
Federal prosecutors detailed how Parker and PEMG employees fabricated laboratory analysis reports, falsely indicating that hazardous asbestos had been properly removed from numerous construction and renovation projects throughout New York City, central New York, and upstate Plattsburgh. This deception allowed asbestos abatement companies to falsely claim compliance with environmental regulations, potentially exposing workers and residents to the deadly fibers.
The investigation, which began in 2001, uncovered that PEMG not only provided fraudulent testing data but also directly engaged in illegal asbestos abatement work within 31 public housing buildings in Plattsburgh, NY. This unauthorized work bypassed crucial safety protocols and further endangered the health of vulnerable residents. The scheme extended beyond simple falsification; evidence presented showed Parker directed employees to actively participate in the fraudulent activity.
Co-Conspirators and Legal Fallout
The investigation didn’t stop with Parker. Several individuals were implicated in the scheme. Escobar, an associate of Parker, pled guilty to conspiracy (18 U.S.C. 371) and received 48 months probation and was ordered to pay $99,651 in restitution to the Plattsburgh Housing Authority. Duffy was charged with violating New York State Penal Code 175.30, and received a one-month jail sentence and a $750 fine. PEMG itself also pled guilty to multiple counts and was sentenced to 24 months probation and a $4,400 fine.
Charges and Penalties
Parker initially faced a staggering 19 counts, including fraud (18 U.S.C. 1341), influencing or injuring an officer or juror (18 U.S.C. 1503), making false declarations (18 U.S.C. 1623), false claims (18 U.S.C. 287), conspiracy (18 U.S.C. 371), multiple violations of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1)), and failures to notify as required by CERCLA (42 U.S.C. 9603(a) & (b)). He ultimately pled guilty to all but three of these charges. In addition to his prison sentence and probation, Parker was ordered to pay an $800 special assessment fee.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Andre Parker, owner of Parker Environmental Management Group (PEMG)
- Crime: Asbestos abatement fraud and illegal asbestos removal.
- Location: New York City, Central New York, Plattsburgh, NY
- Years Active: Scheme operated around 2001-2005
- Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 371, 18 U.S.C. 1341, 18 U.S.C. 1503, 18 U.S.C. 1623, 18 U.S.C. 287, 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1), 42 U.S.C. 9603, NYS Penal Code 175.30
- Penalties: Parker received 48 months incarceration, 36 months probation, and $800 in fines. PEMG received 24 months probation and $4,400 in fines.
- Impact: Exposed workers and residents to hazardous asbestos.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of environmental fraud and the importance of rigorous oversight in asbestos abatement practices. Authorities continue to emphasize the need for strict adherence to environmental regulations to protect public health and safety.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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