Acknowledging that he put both workers and residents at risk of malignant mesothelioma, New Jersey contractor Jose Correa has pled guilty to negligence in releasing asbestos in an East Harlem, New York neighborhood. Correa faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison. Sentencing is at the discretion of the presiding judge in New York.
Contractor’s Failure Put Neighbors and Workers in Danger of Mesothelioma
Exposure to asbestos can lead to malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis, and many other serious diseases. Despite this and the existence of rigorous federal regulations mandating how it is handled and disposed of, contractor Jose Correa bypassed inspections and the use of asbestos abatement professionals during a construction project at an East Harlem supermarket. According to U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, his failures put workers and the public at potential risk.
In a statement referencing how Correa’s negligence created a mesothelioma risk, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said, “Correa instead had construction workers complete this dangerous work – without providing them with basic safety equipment – and put in harm’s way those he had a responsibility to protect.” EPA-CID Special Agent in charge Tyler Amon said, “In this case, General Contractor Correa failed to hire trained and certified asbestos abatement professionals. Defendant Correa did the work ‘on the cheap,’ negligently putting workers and others at risk.”
Details Emerge of Failures That Raised Mesothelioma Risk
In detailing the facts of Correa’s case, the investigators cited many of the factors that led to the charges being filed, and that put the workers at heightened risk for mesothelioma. These included failing to provide them with proper protective gear such as masks and protective suits. The reckless approach allowed asbestos fibers to be released into the ambient air, placing individuals in the area in imminent danger.
If you or someone you love was exposed to asbestos, mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases are a real risk. If you’ve been diagnosed and need information and guidance, contact the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn more.
