Edward Carroll, Asbestos Crime, CT 2004

PLAINFIELD, CT – A demolition project at the former InterRoyal Mill in Plainfield led to federal charges and convictions for both the owner of the demolition company and a local town official, according to court records unsealed this week. Edward Carroll, owner and operator of Farmington Recycling and Demolition, and Michael Saad, a town official, were both found to have violated federal environmental regulations during the 2003 demolition of a significant portion of the mill.

Carroll was initially charged on February 5, 2003, with two counts of knowingly violating the Clean Air Act (CAA), specifically 42 U.S.C. 7413. The charges stemmed from a failure to adhere to National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) regulations regarding asbestos containment and removal during the demolition. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, poses significant health risks when its fibers become airborne. Investigators determined Carroll knowingly disregarded proper procedures, potentially exposing workers and the surrounding community to hazardous materials.

Carroll quickly entered a guilty plea and, on September 2, 2003, was sentenced to 24 months of probation. However, the investigation didn’t end there. Federal prosecutors alleged that Michael Saad, a town official with influence over permitting and inspections, actively aided and abetted Carroll’s illegal activities. Sources close to the investigation indicate Saad allegedly failed to enforce environmental regulations and may have even facilitated the circumvention of required asbestos abatement procedures.

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The Saad Trial and Conviction

On April 2, 2004, Saad was formally charged with one count of aiding and abetting the violation of 42 U.S.C. 7413(c) of the Clean Air Act. Unlike Carroll’s plea deal, Saad took the case to trial. On September 14, 2004, a federal jury found Saad guilty on the single charge. His sentencing mirrored Carroll’s, with 24 months of probation and an additional $1,000 federal fine levied against him. The conviction highlights the potential for corruption within local government and the importance of diligent oversight of environmental regulations.

GrimyTimes Investigation

GrimyTimes has learned that the InterRoyal Mill demolition was particularly concerning due to the building’s age and known asbestos content. While the full extent of any potential public health impact remains unclear, the case underscores the dangers of improper asbestos handling and the critical role of regulatory compliance. The lack of proper abatement procedures could have resulted in long-term health consequences for individuals exposed to asbestos fibers.

Key Facts

Defendant(s): Edward Carroll, Michael Saad
Crime: Violations of the Clean Air Act (CAA) related to asbestos abatement during demolition.
Location: Plainfield, Connecticut
Statutes Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413, 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)
Penalties: 24 months probation for both defendants; $1,000 fine for Saad.
Company Involved: Farmington Recycling and Demolition
Date of Incident: 2003

This case serves as a stark reminder that environmental crimes carry serious consequences, and that those who prioritize profit over public safety will be held accountable. GrimyTimes will continue to investigate potential environmental violations and report on cases that threaten the health and well-being of our communities.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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