Damian Larosa, Asbestos Violations, PA 2003

Philadelphia, PA – Damian Larosa, owner of Larosa Builders, was sentenced in November 2002 following a guilty plea to a Clean Air Act (CAA) violation stemming from the reckless demolition of a former greenhouse property in Pennsylvania. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights a deliberate disregard for public health and environmental regulations in pursuit of cost savings.

According to court documents, Larosa purchased the property, previously utilized for rose cultivation, knowing that the buildings contained significant amounts of asbestos. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and its disturbance can release dangerous fibers into the air, posing a serious health risk to nearby residents. Rather than prioritizing safe abatement, Larosa actively sought the cheapest option for demolition, ignoring legitimate bids from qualified asbestos removal companies.

The EPA investigation revealed that Larosa solicited and received two proposals for the proper and regulated removal of the asbestos-containing materials. These bids, which would have ensured the safe handling and disposal of the hazardous substance, were disregarded. Instead, Larosa contracted with a third company to simply demolish the structures, a decision that directly resulted in the release of friable asbestos fibers into the surrounding environment. Friable asbestos is easily crumbled, increasing the likelihood of airborne contamination.

Larosa was initially charged on July 15, 2002, with one count of knowingly violating the Clean Air Act, specifically 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1). This section of the CAA prohibits knowingly releasing hazardous air pollutants, including asbestos, into the atmosphere without proper permits and controls. He subsequently pled guilty to the charge as outlined in the Information.

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Sentencing & Penalties

On November 12, 2002, Larosa received a sentence of 36 months probation for his actions. In addition to probation, he was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment fee and a substantial $20,000 federal fine. While the financial penalties and probationary period represent a consequence for Larosa’s actions, critics argue the sentence may not fully reflect the potential long-term health impacts on those exposed to the released asbestos.

Key Facts

Defendant: Damian Larosa, Larosa Builders
Location: Pennsylvania
Year: 2003
Crime: Clean Air Act Violation (Asbestos Release)
Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1)
Penalty: 36 months probation, $100 assessment, $20,000 fine
Details: Ignored qualified asbestos removal bids, opted for cheaper demolition, releasing friable asbestos fibers.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and the severe consequences of prioritizing profit over public safety. The EPA continues to actively pursue enforcement actions against individuals and companies who endanger communities through illegal handling of hazardous materials.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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