Jose Virgilio Fernandez, Making False Statements, Rhode Island 2024

PROVIDENCE, RI – In a shocking case of environmental deceit, Rhode Island Safety Environment Training Center owner Jose Virgilio Fernandez has been sentenced to two years’ probation for making false statements to the Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) and the Rhode Island Health Department.

Between 2021 and 2023, Fernandez submitted documents to the Rhode Island Health Department falsely certifying that participants attended an EPA-approved asbestos abatement training program. The documents, signed by Fernandez, claimed that twenty individuals attended and successfully completed a five-day, 40-hour program the week of May 22, 2023. However, an undercover EPA agent revealed that only one person attended the classes for two hours on the first day.

The Toxic Substances Control Act, implemented by the EPA, requires that workers who perform asbestos abatement attend and pass an EPA-approved asbestos training program, which is overseen by the Rhode Island Health Department in Rhode Island.

Fernandez pleaded guilty on October 1, 2024, to a federal charge of making false statements. In addition to being sentenced to two years’ probation, U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., ordered Fernandez to complete ethics training prior to engaging further in providing asbestos abatement training programs or courses.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John P. McAdams with the assistance of EPA Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel Man Chak Ng.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Criminal Investigation Division with the assistance of the Rhode Island Health Department.

The sentencing of Fernandez serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental regulations and the consequences of falsifying documents. The EPA will continue to work tirelessly to protect the public and the environment from those who would seek to deceive and manipulate the system.

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