Comstock Township, MI – A trio of individuals have been sentenced to probation and hefty restitution payments following a federal investigation into a large-scale illegal asbestos removal operation at a former power generation facility in Comstock Township, Michigan. The case, pursued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other federal agencies, is believed to be the largest asbestos release incident in the state since the substance was designated a hazardous air pollutant in 1971.
Cory Hammond, along with co-defendants Robert “Mike” White and LuAnne Labrie (formerly LuAnne McClain), knowingly engaged in the salvage of materials from the abandoned power plant in 2011, despite clear knowledge of the presence of asbestos. Investigators revealed that the group agreed to share in the profits from the salvaged materials, prioritizing financial gain over public health and environmental safety. Labrie, acting as supervisor of the site, regularly visited the facility and directed the operation, failing to notify the EPA or Michigan state authorities about the asbestos removal.
The criminal activity came to light after investigators discovered that the defendants had failed to adhere to mandated safety protocols during the asbestos stripping process. Hammond and White specifically admitted to neglecting to adequately wet the asbestos material before removal, a crucial step to prevent the release of dangerous particulates into the air. This negligence created a significant risk of exposure for workers and potentially surrounding communities.
On March 12, 2015, all three defendants entered guilty pleas to federal felony charges. Sentencing occurred in late October 2015, with Hammond and White each receiving three years of probation and being ordered to pay $154,604 in restitution to the EPA Superfund. Labrie received the same probationary sentence but faced a larger restitution order totaling $897,325, with $175,841 designated for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and $721,484 for the EPA.
The investigation was a collaborative effort between the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Environmental Investigation Section, and the IRS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher O’Connor and U.S. Attorney Patrick Miles led the prosecution, highlighting the seriousness with which federal authorities are addressing environmental crimes.
Key Facts
- Defendants: Cory Hammond, Robert “Mike” White, LuAnne Labrie
- Location: Comstock Township, Michigan
- Statutes Violated: 26 U.S.C. 7203, 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1) – violations of the Clean Air Act relating to improper asbestos handling and failure to notify authorities.
- Penalties: Three years’ probation for each defendant, combined with restitution totaling over $1.05 million.
- Restitution Breakdown: Hammond & White – $154,604 each to EPA Superfund. Labrie – $175,841 to IRS, $721,484 to EPA.
- Significance: Considered the largest asbestos release incident in Michigan since 1971.
The EPA continues to emphasize the importance of proper asbestos abatement procedures, given the severe health risks associated with exposure to the material. This case serves as a stark reminder that individuals and companies who prioritize profit over safety and environmental regulations will face significant legal consequences.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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