Workers' Compensation: Contractor Convicted in Asbestos Scam

In a recent case that highlights the importance of environmental regulations and worker safety, a Colorado contractor was sentenced to 10 years in prison for defrauding an elderly woman and mishandling asbestos.

The contractor, Lance Slayton, was found guilty of criminal exploitation of an at-risk elder, theft, and violations of the Air Quality Control Act. Slayton's actions not only endangered the life of an 82-year-old woman but also put workers and residents at risk of asbestos exposure.

Asbestos is a hazardous material widely used in construction until it was banned in 1978. When disturbed, asbestos can release fibers into the air that can be inhaled and cause serious health problems, including cancer. Slayton was hired to remove asbestos from a fire-damaged property in Arvada, Colorado. However, he failed to follow proper procedures and instead hired unlicensed laborers who mishandled the asbestos. As a result, workers and residents were exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos fibers.

This case reminds us of the importance of following environmental regulations and taking proper precautions when working with hazardous materials. Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems. Hiring qualified professionals who know how to handle asbestos safely is important.

Here are some key takeaways from this case:

Environmental regulations are in place to protect workers and the public from hazardous materials.
Asbestos is a dangerous substance that can cause serious health problems, including cancer.
It is important to hire qualified professionals who know how to handle asbestos safely.
If you are concerned about asbestos in your home or workplace, you should contact a qualified professional to have it inspected and removed.

This case is a victory for environmental protection and worker safety. It sends a message that those who violate environmental regulations and put others at risk will be held accountable. It is important to remember that environmental regulations are in place to protect us all.

Recommended Citation: Gelman, Jon., Contractor Convicted in Asbestos Scam, www.gelmans.com (02/21/2025) https://workers-compensation.blogspot.com/2025/02/contractor-convicted-in-asbestos-scam.html

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*Jon L. Gelman of Wayne, NJ, is the author of NJ Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters) and co-author of the national treatise Modern Workers’ Compensation Law (West-Thomson-Reuters). For over five decades, the Law Offices of Jon Gelman 1.973.696.7900
jon@gelmans.com has represented injured workers and their families who have suffered occupational illnesses and diseases.