March 30th, 2007

Three men from Plattsburgh have been indicted for the illegal removal of asbestos in various locations in upstate New York and the central New York areas. Asbestos is a known carcinogenic that can lead to a range of health problems. Regulations with regards to working with and removing asbestos are very strict.

The three men that were indicted are John F. Wood, 57, and Mark Desnoyers, 52, both of Plattsburgh, and Curtis Collins, 50, of Willsboro. The men allegedly engaged in illegal activities relating to asbestos removal in private homes as well as in commercial and industrial buildings.

The men were indicted on a number of charges, and if found guilty could face long prison sentences as well as hefty fines. Among the charges brought against the men are violations of the Clean Air Act, making false statements to Environmental Protection Agency officials, and obstruction of justice.

Airborne fibers that can result of asbestos removal can result in a range of health problems, and this includes respiratory disorders, scarring of the lungs, and a form of cancer known as mesothelioma.