Illegal Asbestos Removal In New Haven Results In Fine

NEW HAVEN, CT — Two New Haven property owners were sentenced in U.S. District Court after they illegally removed asbestos from their properties.

Rezart Rakaj, 35, of Ansonia and Kliton Rakaj, 39, of Monroe were each sentenced to a year of probation, a $9,500 fine and 50 hours of community service.

“These defendants recklessly cut corners and endangered the lives of their workers,” U.S. Attorney John Durham said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committing to prosecuting all who deliberately harm the environment and risk public health in order to save money.”

The brothers purchased property on Wallace Street in 2015. A realtor informed them that the property contained asbestos and that a prior potential buyer got a bid of $117,000 to remove it through the proper channels, according to the U.S. Attorney District of Connecticut.

The brothers employed workers to demolish parts of the building, including significant amounts of asbestos.

New Haven Health Department began investigating after an anonymous tip. The investigation revealed that the workers didn't properly remove the asbestos, which requires negative air pressure, wetting and protective sheeting to abatement areas. Workers wore masks, but they aren't rated for asbestos protection and they wore suits that weren't meant for asbestos abatement.

“The illegal removal of asbestos insulation and the associated removal of scrap pipe and boilers from old buildings continues to be a problem throughout the Northeast,” said EPS-CID Special Agent in Charge Tyler Amon. “Inhalation of asbestos fibers can result in lung cancer and it therefore poses significant health risks to all exposed. EPA will continue to hold accountable those who commit such offenses.”

The brothers pleaded guilty to one count of illegal asbestos removal. They also face a fine from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.