BRENTWOOD, N.Y. (Legal Newsline) — New York Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman announced May 4 that he has filed a federal lawsuit in an attempt to recover damages from companies that allegedly dumped contaminated construction waste in Brentwood on Long Island.
“Parks aren’t luxuries; they are vital to the public health, economies, and social fabrics of the communities they serve,” Schneiderman said. “We believe the companies and individuals named in our suit are responsible for the dumping of hazardous substances into the heart of Brentwood and causing a much-beloved park to be closed off to the community for years. Those responsible for closing Roberto Clemente Park must repay their debt to the Brentwood community.”
Schneiderman argues that the companies - and various individuals - named in the lawsuit illegally dumped hazardous substances into the Brentwood park, an act that led to the park being unusable for residents of the region. Schneiderman says the defendants are liable under federal and state law to pay damages.
“We have zero tolerance for those who illegally dump materials in our parks and this action sends a clear message that we will hold them accountable for breaking the law,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone. “Along with recent county legislation I signed into law that stiffens penalties and includes jail time, I commend Attorney General Schneiderman for his commitment to protecting our parks in Suffolk County.”