A former licensed asbestos investigator and abatement contractor, Peter Ray Ward, was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison in August 2006 for illegally directing the removal of hazardous asbestos-containing materials (ACM) from two New York City buildings. Ward’s actions exposed workers and potentially the public to dangerous asbestos fibers, violating federal environmental regulations.
According to court documents, Ward oversaw the improper removal of ACM from a police precinct building in Queens and an apartment building in Brooklyn during 2005. While authorized to *inspect* for asbestos and conduct legal abatement, Ward directed workers to bypass safety protocols required under the Clean Air Act. These protocols are designed to contain and safely remove asbestos, preventing its release into the air.
The investigation, led by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division, revealed that Ward knowingly endangered workers by failing to implement proper containment, worker protection, and disposal procedures. Instead of adhering to regulations, he prioritized speed and cost-cutting measures, allegedly to maximize profits from the abatement contracts. Prosecutors argued this demonstrated a reckless disregard for public health and safety.
Ward was initially charged on May 5, 2005, with two counts of violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), 42 U.S.C. 7412. However, a superseding information led to a guilty plea on January 1, 2006, specifically under 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1) of the Clean Air Act, which addresses the improper handling of hazardous air pollutants like asbestos. The RCRA charges were dropped as part of the plea agreement.
Penalties and Aftermath
In addition to the 27-month prison sentence, Judge sentenced Ward to 36 months of supervised probation following his release. He was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment fee, but no fine was levied. The case highlights the EPA’s commitment to pursuing criminal charges against individuals who knowingly violate environmental regulations and endanger public health. The lack of a substantial fine has drawn some criticism, with advocates arguing it doesn’t adequately reflect the severity of the offense and the potential long-term health consequences for those exposed.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Peter Ray Ward
- Crime: Illegal asbestos removal, violating the Clean Air Act
- Location: Queens and Brooklyn, New York
- Statutes Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1)
- Sentence: 27 months incarceration, 36 months probation, $200 assessment
- Date of Sentencing: August 7, 2006
GrimyTimes will continue to follow cases involving environmental crimes and hold those responsible accountable for endangering communities.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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