Seattle, WA – Odom Corp., a wholesale beverage distributor, and two former managers have been penalized for illegally removing and improperly disposing of asbestos from the company’s warehouse in 1996. The case, brought by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights a blatant disregard for public health and safety regulations concerning hazardous materials.
According to court documents, former Odom Corp. Operations Manager, Sacco, and former Warehouse Manager, Dempsey, directed employees to remove asbestos-containing wall covering without adhering to mandated safety protocols. These protocols, established under the Clean Air Act, are designed to prevent the release of dangerous asbestos fibers into the air, which can cause severe respiratory illnesses, including cancer.
The EPA initiated the investigation after discovering the unauthorized removal and disposal. The defendants knowingly violated section 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) of the Clean Air Act, which prohibits the knowing violation of any requirement of the Act. Instead of contracting licensed asbestos abatement professionals, Odom Corp., under the direction of Sacco and Dempsey, opted for a cheaper, but profoundly dangerous, approach, putting workers and potentially the surrounding community at risk.
Legal Ramifications & Sentencing
All three parties – Odom Corp., Sacco, and Dempsey – ultimately pled guilty to the charges. On August 15, 1996, Sacco and Dempsey admitted their wrongdoing, followed by Odom Corp.’s guilty plea on August 19, 1996. Sentencing occurred over the subsequent months. Dempsey received 36 months of probation. Odom Corp. was slapped with a hefty $200,000 fine, in addition to 36 months of probation. Sacco faced the most severe penalty, receiving a six-month prison sentence, 36 months of probation, and a $3,000 fine.
A Pattern of Negligence?
While this case was settled in 1996, it raises questions about the potential for similar violations at other facilities. The EPA continues to prioritize the enforcement of asbestos regulations, given the long-term health risks associated with exposure. Sources within the agency suggest that companies often attempt to cut corners on hazardous material removal, prioritizing profit over worker safety and environmental protection.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Odom Corp., Sacco, Dempsey
- Crime: Illegal asbestos removal and disposal
- Location: Seattle, Washington
- Year: 1997 (actions occurred in 1996)
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) – Clean Air Act
- Penalties: Odom Corp. – $200,000 fine, 36 months probation. Dempsey – 36 months probation. Sacco – 6 months incarceration, 36 months probation, $3,000 fine.
- Details: Defendants directed employees to remove asbestos without proper safety precautions.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental crime and report on those who put profits before people.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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