An Ohio prison official’s claim that the Chillicothe Correctional Institution dormitories were clear of asbestos is accused of being false.
The official said early last year that two years prior, all asbestos in the dormitory was removed. This claim is allegedly false. It is reported that the prison actually contains high amounts of asbestos.
A survey in May 2007 shows that asbestos was found as pipe insulation, caulking and tile floors. Asbestos dust was found in dormitories and other rooms that are inhabited by inmates. Other areas were found to have crumbling asbestos material.
A prison spokesperson has stated that the prison has worked to remove or contain all asbestos. The spokesperson also stated that none of the inmates or employees of Chillicothe were harmed by the asbestos.
In January, a lawsuit was filed on behalf of thirty-three Chillicothe inmates. They are seeking damages for asbestos exposure.
The lawsuit states that the inmates collected a powder residue from the floor of their dorms. It was sent to their lawyer and tested positive for asbestos.
Asbestos is considered dangerous if it is crumbling or releasing dust into the air. If asbestos is inhaled, it can cause severe illnesses, such as mesothelioma.
If you or a loved one has suffered serious illness or death from mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos, contact the mesothelioma attorneys of Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP at 1-888-MESO-FIRM. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer will be able to evaluate if you are eligible to seek compensation.