G&Erie Associates, Air Pollution, PA 1993

Philadelphia, PA – In 1993, G&Erie Associates, a Pennsylvania limited partnership, and its principal, Daniel Lasdon, faced federal charges for violating the Clean Air Act (CAA) related to the improper handling and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. The case, stemming from demolition work at properties owned by G&Erie in Philadelphia, highlights the dangers of negligent asbestos abatement and the potential for significant penalties under environmental law.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigation revealed that G&Erie, managed by Lasdon Real Estate, failed to adhere to crucial work practice standards designed to minimize the release of asbestos fibers into the air. Walter Grzelak, a contractor hired by G&Erie to remove debris, played a central role in the violations. The indictment, handed down in April 1992, alleged that the defendants knowingly disregarded regulations aimed at protecting public health and the environment during the demolition process.

Specifically, the charges included violations of 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1)(C), 42 U.S.C. 7412(c)(1)(B), and 42 U.S.C. 7412(e) of the Clean Air Act, which govern asbestos emission standards and mandated work practices during demolition and renovation activities. An additional charge under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), 42 U.S.C. 9603(b), related to a failure to properly notify authorities of the asbestos-containing materials, was later dismissed.

Facing mounting evidence, all four defendants – G&Erie Associates, Daniel Lasdon, Lasdon Real Estate, and Walter Grzelak – entered guilty pleas to the four CAA violations in July 1992. The pleas marked a turning point in the case, leading to sentencing in the fall of the same year. While Lasdon Real Estate ultimately had the charges against it dismissed, the other parties were held accountable for their roles in the environmental infractions.

Walter Grzelak received a sentence of 90 days of home confinement, coupled with 36 months of probation, 400 hours of community service, and a $5,000 fine. Daniel J. Lasdon faced similar penalties: 90 days of home confinement, 36 months probation, 400 hours of community service, and a $5,000 fine. G&Erie Associates was penalized with a $30,000 fine. The sentences serve as a stark reminder that environmental crimes, even those seemingly tied to property management and construction, carry significant legal and financial consequences.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: G&Erie Associates, Daniel Lasdon, Walter Grzelak
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Crime: Violations of the Clean Air Act regarding asbestos handling and disposal
Statutes Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1)(C), 42 U.S.C. 7412(c)(1)(B), 42 U.S.C. 7412(e), 42 U.S.C. 9603(b) (CERCLA – dismissed)
Penalties: Grzelak – 90 days home confinement, 36 months probation, 400 hours community service, $5,000 fine. Lasdon – same as Grzelak. G&Erie – $30,000 fine.
Date of Plea: July 15, 1992

GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental enforcement cases and report on those who put profit before public safety.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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