Martin Flores, Asbestos Fraud, Colorado 2017

Denver, CO – Martin Flores, operating under the name The Environmental Solutions Group, was sentenced in December 2017 to 30 months of incarceration and ordered to pay $264,068 in restitution after being convicted of defrauding customers and improperly handling asbestos abatement in Colorado. The case, investigated by state authorities, revealed a pattern of deceit and disregard for public health and safety regulations.

According to court documents, Flores and his company engaged in a scheme where they falsely claimed to be properly licensed and certified to perform asbestos sampling and abatement. This misrepresentation was used to secure contracts with homeowners and businesses, as well as to fraudulently obtain payments from insurance companies. The Environmental Solutions Group allegedly fabricated bids and documentation to inflate the perceived value of their services.

The fraud extended beyond initial contract acquisition. Investigators found that during actual asbestos abatement projects, Flores, his employees, and the company routinely failed to adhere to established and legally mandated asbestos disposal procedures. This negligence posed a significant risk of exposure to harmful asbestos fibers, potentially endangering both workers and the public. Asbestos is a known carcinogen, and improper handling can lead to severe respiratory illnesses, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

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Legal Violations and Penalties

Flores’ actions violated multiple Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS). Specifically, he was found guilty of offenses related to:

CRS 2922108: Details regarding specific licensing and certification requirements for asbestos professionals were violated through false representation.
CRS 1852111(e)(4): This statute covers fraudulent claiming and deceptive trade practices, specifically pertaining to services rendered.
CRS 25712213(a): Relates to the proper handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials, including asbestos, and the failure to comply with these regulations.

The severity of the violations resulted in a substantial financial penalty in the form of $264,068 in restitution, intended to reimburse victims for losses incurred due to the fraudulent activities. The 30-month prison sentence reflects the seriousness with which Colorado authorities view offenses involving public health and safety, and particularly those involving hazardous materials like asbestos.

Key Facts

Defendant: Martin Flores dba The Environmental Solutions Group
State: Colorado
Year of Sentencing: 2018 (based on December 2017 sentencing)
Restitution Ordered: $264,068
Prison Sentence: 30 months
Crime: Asbestos fraud, improper abatement procedures, and fraudulent business practices.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of verifying the credentials of contractors performing asbestos abatement and the potential dangers associated with unqualified or unscrupulous operators. Authorities urge anyone suspecting fraudulent activity or improper handling of hazardous materials to report it immediately to the appropriate state and local agencies.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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