Marco Webster, Lead Poisoning Crime, MO 2003

St. Louis, MO – Marco Webster was sentenced to twelve months of probation and ordered to pay a $2,000 federal fine after pleading guilty to a criminal violation of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The case, brought forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), centered around Webster’s failure to disclose the presence of lead-based paint in properties he owned and rented in St. Louis, potentially endangering tenants and violating federal law.

According to court documents, Webster knowingly rented properties located on North Market Street without informing his tenants about the potential health hazards associated with lead-based paint. Lead exposure, particularly dangerous to children, can cause developmental delays, learning disabilities, and a range of other serious health problems. The EPA’s investigation revealed a pattern of negligence, with Webster allegedly prioritizing profit over the safety of his renters.

The charges against Webster stemmed from incidents dating back to 2001, including the sale of a residence where he falsified the required disclosure form regarding lead-based paint. This form is legally mandated to ensure potential buyers are aware of any lead hazards present on the property. The falsification, according to prosecutors, was a deliberate attempt to conceal the presence of lead paint and avoid potential remediation costs.

The EPA initiated its investigation following complaints from concerned citizens and potential tenants. Evidence collected by investigators demonstrated that Webster had been repeatedly informed about the dangers of lead-based paint and the requirements for proper disclosure, yet continued to operate in violation of the law. The case highlights the ongoing issue of lead poisoning in older housing stock and the responsibility of landlords to protect their tenants.

Webster was formally charged on February 12, 2003, with one count of violating 15 U.S.C. 2615(b), the section of the Toxic Substances Control Act specifically addressing criminal violations related to lead-based paint disclosures. He entered a guilty plea on April 28, 2003, and ultimately received his sentence on July 11, 2003. While the sentence included probation and a fine, advocacy groups are calling for stricter penalties for landlords who knowingly endanger their tenants with lead exposure.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Marco Webster
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
Statute Violated: 15 U.S.C. 2615(b) – Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) criminal violations regarding lead-based paint disclosures.
Charge Date: February 12, 2003
Plea: Guilty
Sentence: 12 months probation and a $2,000 federal fine.
Details: Webster failed to disclose lead-based paint hazards to renters and falsified a disclosure form during a property sale.

GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on further developments regarding lead poisoning and housing safety in the St. Louis area.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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