Carl L. Anderson, Falsifying Business Records, New York 2006

Jamestown, NY – Carl L. Anderson, owner of Anderson International, a now-defunct asbestos abatement contractor, avoided jail time but received a 60-month probation sentence in 2006 after admitting to fraudulently securing and performing asbestos removal work at the former Grants building in Jamestown, New York. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and New York State authorities, revealed a deliberate scheme to circumvent regulations designed to protect public health and worker safety.

According to court documents, Anderson International was awarded the asbestos abatement contract despite not being properly licensed to handle the hazardous material. Anderson allegedly provided a falsified asbestos certificate license to the building owner, misleading them into believing his company possessed the necessary qualifications. This false representation allowed him to secure the lucrative contract, a clear violation of state and federal regulations.

The investigation further uncovered that Anderson knowingly employed unlicensed and untrained workers to illegally remove asbestos-containing material (ACM) from the Grants building. This practice exposed both the workers and the public to significant health risks, as proper asbestos abatement requires specialized equipment and procedures to prevent the release of dangerous fibers into the air. The improper removal also violated stringent environmental regulations.

On January 31, 2006, Anderson was formally charged with one count of violating 42 U.S.C. 7413, a section of the Clean Water Act addressing knowingly violating environmental regulations, and two counts under New York Penal Law (NYPL): Section 170.25 (criminal possession of a forged instrument) and 170.10 (falsifying business records). However, the federal charge under 42 U.S.C. 7413 was dismissed following Anderson’s guilty plea to the state charge of falsifying business records (NYPL 175.10) on February 27, 2006. The dismissal of the federal count raises questions about the prioritization and prosecution of environmental crimes in the region.

While Anderson avoided a financial penalty, the 60-month probation sentence served as a warning against similar fraudulent practices. The case highlights the critical importance of verifying the credentials of asbestos abatement contractors and the potential dangers of unqualified individuals handling hazardous materials. Asbestos exposure can lead to severe respiratory illnesses, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, making proper abatement procedures essential.

The GrimyTimes has reached out to the EPA and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for comment on the case and the dismissal of the federal charges, but has not yet received a response. This case serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly minor infractions related to environmental regulations can have serious consequences for public health and safety. The lack of a financial penalty has drawn criticism from some local advocates.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Carl L. Anderson, owner of Anderson International
Location: Jamestown, New York
Year: 2006
Crime: Asbestos abatement fraud, falsifying business records
Statutes Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413 (Clean Water Act – knowingly violates), NYPL Section 170.25 (criminal possession of a forged instrument), NYPL 170.10 (falsifying business records), NYPL 175.10 (falsifying business records – plea)
Penalty: 60 months probation, no fine
Federal Charge: 42 U.S.C. 7413 was dismissed after plea to state charge.
Details: Anderson used a falsified license and unlicensed workers to remove asbestos from the former Grants building.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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