Cambria, CA – Luther Akers, operator of the decommissioned Cambria Air Force Station (CAFS), was sentenced in June 2011 after pleading “no contest” to a misdemeanor charge related to the illegal removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials from the property. The case, investigated by state environmental authorities, revealed a disturbing pattern of knowingly endangering residents of the facility while circumventing federal and state regulations designed to protect public health.
CAFS, a former US Air Force radar tracking station, had been repurposed as subsidized housing sponsored by a church group. Residents, many of whom were receiving housing in exchange for property maintenance, were allegedly directed by Akers and property owner Bernd Schaefers to strip asbestos-containing materials (ACM) from buildings across the 60-acre site. Prior to the illegal removal, at least two surveys confirmed the presence of thousands of square feet of ACM within the structures. Crucially, investigators found evidence that Akers was fully aware of these surveys and their findings, yet proceeded to authorize the work anyway.
The operation was particularly egregious due to the complete lack of safety precautions. Residents tasked with the removal of the dangerous materials received no asbestos training and were not provided with any personal protective equipment (PPE), leaving them vulnerable to potentially life-threatening health consequences. Asbestos exposure can lead to debilitating respiratory diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, often with a latency period of decades before symptoms manifest. The illegal disposal of the ACM further compounded the environmental and public health risks.
The investigation uncovered a clear conspiracy between Akers and Schaefers to cut corners and avoid the considerable costs associated with proper asbestos abatement. Legitimate asbestos removal requires specialized training, certified professionals, rigorous safety protocols, and disposal at designated landfills – all of which were bypassed in this case. Authorities believe the motivation was purely financial, prioritizing profit over the well-being of the residents and the surrounding community.
Penalties & Charges
Akers was charged with violating California Health and Safety Code (HSC) 23.01.039, pertaining to unpermitted remodeling of buildings containing hazardous materials. Both Akers and Schaefers ultimately pled “no contest” to the misdemeanor charge. Akers received a sentence of 20 days incarceration, 24 months probation, and a $500 federal fine. Schaefers faced a similar penalty, receiving 20 days incarceration, 24 months probation, and a $1,000 federal fine.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Luther Akers & Bernd Schaefers
- Location: Cambria Air Force Station, California
- Crime: Illegal asbestos removal and disposal
- Statute Violated: California HSC 23.01.039 (Unpermitted Remodeling)
- Victims: Residents of CAFS exposed to asbestos
- Sentence: 20 days incarceration, 24 months probation, fines ($500 – $1000)
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of asbestos and the importance of strict adherence to environmental regulations. While the penalties handed down to Akers and Schaefers were relatively light, the long-term health consequences for those exposed to the asbestos could be devastating. GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and investigate any potential ongoing health impacts on the former residents of CAFS.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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