DAYTON, OH – A Lima, Ohio man was sentenced to federal prison this week for knowingly violating environmental regulations during the demolition of the former Piqua Medical Center in 2008. Lamont P. Pryor, 47, owner of Avalon Commonwealth Inc., received a 13-month prison sentence after pleading guilty to charges stemming from the improper handling and disposal of asbestos.
Federal prosecutors detailed how Pryor directed his company to remove scrap metal from the hospital site, prioritizing profit over public safety and environmental compliance. While the valuable metal was promptly sold, the remaining demolition debris – including significant quantities of friable asbestos – was simply piled around the property, left exposed to wind and weather. This practice directly violated federal regulations designed to protect communities from the dangers of asbestos exposure.
The case, investigated by a multi-agency task force including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, and the Ohio EPA, revealed that Pryor was aware of the proper procedures for asbestos abatement. He understood the requirement to deposit asbestos-containing materials at a licensed disposal facility but intentionally disregarded those regulations. A subsequent inspection by the Regional Air Pollution Control Agency (RAPCA) in December 2008 discovered the exposed asbestos and prompted a halt to demolition activities.
Legal Ramifications
Pryor was convicted of three counts of violating the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) provisions of the Clean Air Act, specifically 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1). These violations carry significant penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. The sentence handed down by U.S. District Judge Timothy S. Black reflects the seriousness with which federal authorities view environmental crimes, particularly those involving hazardous materials like asbestos.
A Public Health Threat
“Knowingly cutting corners in handling asbestos is a threat to communities that cannot be tolerated,” stated Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, poses a severe health risk, capable of causing cancers such as mesothelioma and lung cancer, as well as debilitating respiratory diseases. The EPA emphasized that Pryor’s actions not only endangered the environment but also put his untrained workers and the public at risk.
Cooperative Investigation
Randall K. Ashe, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Ohio, lauded the collaborative effort of the investigative team. “This case should serve notice that EPA and its partner agencies will not abide by those who do not handle and dispose of asbestos properly,” he said. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alex Sistla and Brad Beeson (U.S. EPA) successfully prosecuted the case.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Lamont P. Pryor
- Company: Avalon Commonwealth Inc.
- Location: Piqua, Ohio (Demolition of Piqua Medical Center)
- Crime: Improper handling and disposal of asbestos
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1) – Clean Air Act (NESHAP)
- Sentence: 13 months imprisonment
- Agencies Involved: U.S. EPA, Ohio Attorney General’s Office, Ohio EPA, RAPCA
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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