Dillan Delucio, Lead Paint Renovation Violations, Indiana 2016

Richmond, IN – Dillan Delucio, co-owner and operator of Aluminum Brothers, a certified lead-based paint renovation firm, has been sentenced to one year of probation and 50 hours of community service for violations of federal regulations designed to protect public health from lead exposure. The sentencing, handed down on March 3, 2022, follows an investigation into Aluminum Brothers’ work on two properties in Richmond, Indiana, during 2016 and 2017.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) brought the criminal enforcement case against Delucio, alleging he aided and abetted his father – also involved in the operation of Aluminum Brothers – in failing to adhere to crucial safety protocols during lead paint renovation projects. These protocols are mandated under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and are designed to prevent the release of dangerous lead particles into the environment and, critically, to protect workers and residents from exposure.

Investigators determined that during renovations at both properties, Aluminum Brothers neglected to implement basic containment measures. Specifically, the firm failed to cover the ground with protective plastic sheeting to capture falling paint chips, neglected to erect vertical containment barriers to isolate the work area, and did not properly clean up residual paint debris from the surrounding yards. These omissions directly contravene the requirements for certified lead-safe renovation practices.

The case took a further turn when authorities discovered evidence that Delucio was present when falsified records regarding required worker training were created. Back-dating documents to falsely indicate compliance with TSCA regulations constitutes a separate criminal offense, demonstrating a deliberate attempt to mislead regulators and avoid accountability. While the father’s role is not detailed in publicly available records, Dillan Delucio was held accountable for his participation in these violations.

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Legal Ramifications

Delucio was found to have violated Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, Section 2, and 15 U.S.C. 2689, pertaining to false statements and violations of the Toxic Substances Control Act’s Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) Rule. The RRP Rule requires firms working with lead-based paint to be certified and follow specific work practices to minimize lead exposure. The penalties reflect the seriousness of the offense, acknowledging the potential health risks associated with lead poisoning, particularly for children.

Key Facts

Defendant: Dillan Delucio
Company: Aluminum Brothers (certified lead-based paint renovation firm)
Location: Richmond, Indiana
Years of Violation: 2016-2017
Violated Laws: 18 U.S.C. 2, 15 U.S.C. 2689 (TSCA)
Penalties: One year probation, 50 hours community service
Violations Included: Failure to contain paint debris, failure to clean up lead chips, and witnessing the falsification of training records.

The EPA continues to prioritize enforcement of lead-based paint regulations, recognizing the lasting health consequences of lead exposure. This case serves as a warning to contractors and business owners: compliance with safety standards isn’t merely a suggestion—it’s the law, and deliberate violations will be prosecuted.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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