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D.C. Apartment Complex Owner to Pay $35K for Improper Asbestos Renovation

Release Date: 2/16/2000
Contact Information: Ruth Podems, (215) 814-5540

Ruth Podems, 215-814-5540

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Ripudaman Gulati, majority owner of an apartment complex in southeast Washington, pled guilty in federal court on February 10 to failing to notify EPA that an asbestos removal would take place at the complex, as required by federal environmental regulations. The complex is located at Hartford and Knox Streets.

Gulati hired two licensed asbestos workers who eventually removed the material improperly and dumped asbestos waste in an alley in another part of the district. These individuals previously pled guilty to improper removal and disposal charges and await sentencing.

Gulati and his business partnership have entered into a plea agreement which calls for a $25,000 fine and $10,000 in a community service payment to The Conservation Foundation, a non-profit organization located in Washington. Gulati will be sentenced in accordance with federal sentencing guidelines.

This case was investigated by EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division and the FBI.


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