Jose Correa, Asbestos Negligence, New York 2022

Grimy Times has learned that Jose Correa, a 66-year-old New Jersey-based contractor, has pleaded guilty to negligently causing the release of asbestos into the ambient air at a New York City supermarket. The crime occurred in East Harlem, Manhattan, between November 2022 and December 2022.

According to the investigation, Correa removed asbestos-containing floor tiles and mastic from the supermarket floor without hiring an asbestos abatement contractor to perform the work. He instead used his own construction workers to remove the floor tiles and mastic, failing to provide them with protective gear such as masks and protective suits.

The actions of Correa caused the release of asbestos material into the ambient air, putting the construction workers in imminent danger of death and serious bodily injury. This was a clear violation of the Clean Air Act.

As a result, Correa has pleaded guilty to one count of negligently causing the release of asbestos into the ambient air. He faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and will be determined by a judge.

This case is a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to environmental regulations to protect the health and safety of workers and the public. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Criminal Investigation Division and the New York City Department of Investigation conducted the investigation and brought the case to justice.

Correa's actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the well-being of others, and his guilty plea is a testament to the commitment of law enforcement agencies to hold individuals accountable for their crimes.

The prosecution of this case is being handled by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Rothman leading the effort. The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge John P. Cronan.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/new-jersey-contractor-pleads-guilty-negligent-release-asbestos