Jose Virgilio Fernandez, the owner of a training center in Rhode Island, has been sentenced to two years of probation for falsifying documents related to asbestos abatement training. This decision was announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.
Between 2021 and 2023, Fernandez submitted false certifications to the Rhode Island Department of Health, claiming that numerous individuals had attended and passed an EPA-approved training program. However, the investigation revealed that the only person who attended was an undercover EPA agent, who was present for just two hours on the first day.
Fernandez falsely reported that 20 individuals completed a five-day, 40-hour training program during the week of May 22, 2023. In reality, no one else was there. The EPA requires workers involved in asbestos removal to complete approved training, which in Rhode Island is overseen by the state health department.
Fernandez pleaded guilty to making false statements on October 1, 2025. Along with probation, the judge mandated that he complete ethics training before he can continue offering asbestos training programs.
The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney John P. McAdams, with support from the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division and the Rhode Island Department of Health. This incident highlights the importance of integrity in training programs designed to protect public health and safety.