New Jersey company accused of lying about lead pipe replacement in Newark
- Federal authorities allege that JAS Group Enterprise submitted false documentation regarding the replacement of lead pipes in Newark.
- The company is accused of misleading inspectors and failing to perform necessary work, affecting only a small percentage of the project.
- If found guilty, the foreperson and CEO could face severe penalties, highlighting the need for accountability in public contracts.
In Newark, New Jersey, federal authorities have accused JAS Group Enterprise of fraudulently claiming to have replaced lead water pipes as part of a $10.2 million project. The Lead Service Line Replacement Program was initiated after elevated lead levels were detected in the city's water supply. Allegations surfaced that the company submitted misleading photographs of copper pipes, which were already in place, instead of the lead pipes they were contracted to replace. U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger stated that company foreperson Latronia Sanders instructed crews to avoid replacing lead pipes, even when lead was present. Investigators revealed that Sanders sent deceptive messages to inspectors to mislead them about the necessity of the work performed. The city of Newark excavated 400 sites, discovering only 28 with lead pipes needing replacement, indicating that the company’s actions affected a small percentage of the overall project. If convicted, both Sanders and CEO Michael Sawyer could face significant prison time and hefty fines. The mayor of Newark, Ras Baraka, emphasized that the health of residents was not compromised, asserting that the city acted promptly upon discovering the issues. This case highlights the importance of accountability in public contracts and the potential risks posed by fraudulent practices in infrastructure projects.