Gonzalo Aguilar Doblado, Asbestos Violations, Nevada 2022

Las Vegas, NV – Gonzalo Aguilar Doblado was sentenced in April 2022 for knowingly violating the Clean Air Act during multiple renovation projects in the Las Vegas area, according to records obtained by GrimyTimes. The case highlights a pattern of disregard for public health and safety regulations concerning the handling of hazardous materials.

Court documents reveal that in 2016, Doblado was contracted by Bobby Khalili to renovate an apartment complex. The work involved the removal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM), specifically wall texture and acoustic ceiling tiles, from several units. Instead of adhering to safe removal protocols, Doblado and his crew improperly removed the ACM, placing the dry, asbestos-laden material directly into an open dumpster in the complex’s courtyard. This negligent act resulted in the release of dangerous asbestos fibers into the surrounding air, potentially exposing residents and workers to a known carcinogen.

This wasn’t an isolated incident. Records indicate a similar renovation project in 2014 drew the attention of local authorities when asbestos material was discovered on the premises. Clark County personnel not only halted the work but also *directly informed* Doblado of the proper procedures for handling RACM during renovation projects – essentially providing a clear warning and instruction on how to avoid future violations. Despite this intervention, Doblado repeated the same unlawful practices two years later.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) criminal enforcement division investigated the case, uncovering evidence of deliberate non-compliance with federal regulations. The improper handling of asbestos poses significant health risks, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma, often with a latency period of decades between exposure and diagnosis. The EPA prioritizes enforcement actions against those who knowingly endanger communities by disregarding asbestos safety standards.

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Legal Ramifications

Doblado was found to have violated 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) of the Clean Air Act, which specifically addresses the improper handling of asbestos-containing materials. He was sentenced to five months of incarceration, credited as time served, and one year of supervised release. While the sentence may seem lenient, the EPA often pursues both criminal penalties and civil actions to recover costs associated with cleanup and remediation.

Key Facts

Defendant: Gonzalo Aguilar Doblado
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Years of Violations: 2014 & 2016
Crime: Improper removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials.
Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) – Clean Air Act
Penalty: 5 months incarceration (time served), 1 year supervised release
Prior Warning: Clark County officials informed Doblado of proper ACM handling in 2014.

GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments, including potential civil penalties or remediation efforts related to the asbestos contamination.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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