Wahpeton, ND – Meide and Son, Inc., a North Dakota construction company, and its owner, Jerry Meide, faced federal charges and penalties following a deliberate scheme to illegally remove and improperly dispose of asbestos-containing materials in 1998. The case, brought forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), revealed a reckless disregard for both public health and environmental regulations.
According to court documents, Jerry Meide directed his employees to remove asbestos pipe insulation from multiple buildings in Wahpeton without adhering to established safety protocols. Instead of following lawful asbestos abatement procedures, Meide allegedly instructed workers to conceal the hazardous materials from authorities. This involved repeatedly moving the asbestos, ultimately abandoning it in an exposed dumpster – a clear violation of federal law.
The indictment detailed that the removal work was conducted without any of the standard work practices designed to contain asbestos fibers. Crucially, employees received no training or certification for handling such dangerous materials. They were also not provided with the necessary protective clothing or equipment, leaving them vulnerable to long-term health risks associated with asbestos exposure. The scheme prioritized cost-cutting over the safety of both the workers and the surrounding community.
Legal Ramifications
On August 19, 1998, Meide and Son, Inc. and Jerry Meide were indicted on one count of conspiracy, violating 18 U.S.C. 371, and one count of knowingly violating the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4)). The charges stemmed from the deliberate circumvention of regulations designed to prevent the release of asbestos into the environment. The prosecution successfully argued that Meide knowingly endangered individuals through his actions.
Facing mounting evidence, the defendants pled guilty to the conspiracy charge on November 25, 1998. The sentencing reflected the severity of the offenses. Meide and Son, Inc. was sentenced to 36 months of probation and ordered to pay a substantial fine of $100,000. Jerry Meide himself received a 10-month prison sentence, followed by 12 months of probation. In addition to incarceration, Meide was ordered to pay $100,000 in restitution to the State of North Dakota to cover costs associated with cleaning up the improperly discarded asbestos.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Meide and Son, Inc. and Jerry Meide
- Location: Wahpeton, North Dakota
- Crime: Illegal asbestos removal and disposal
- Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 371 (Conspiracy), 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) (Clean Air Act)
- Company Penalty: 36 months probation, $100,000 fine
- Jerry Meide Penalty: 10 months incarceration, 12 months probation, $100,000 restitution
- Worker Safety: Employees were untrained, uncertified, and lacked proper protective equipment.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences associated with environmental crimes and the importance of adhering to regulations designed to protect public health. The EPA continues to prioritize enforcement actions against those who prioritize profit over safety and the environment.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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