LAWRENCE — A Lawrence developer has been convicted of illegally disposing of roofing material containing asbestos while remodeling a country club.
The Lawrence Journal-World reports that jurors deliberated about two hours before finding Thomas Fritzel guilty of three federal charges related to the failure to properly handle the debris.
Asbestos was used for decades as insulation and as a fire-resistant material. But it can cause lung diseases, cancer and other health problems.
Federal prosecutors said that Fritzel was aware that the Alvamar Country Club contained asbestos and didn’t follow state disposal requirements. Defense attorney Edward Novak maintained that Fritzel took appropriate steps to dispose of the asbestos.
Fritzel faces up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.
