PHILADELPHIA, PA — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has filed criminal charges against the School District of Philadelphia, accusing it of failing to meet federal asbestos safety requirements in multiple schools.
The charges, announced on June 26, 2025, are the result of a five-year investigation conducted by federal authorities, including the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division and the Department of Justice’s Environmental Crimes Section. Prosecutors allege that the district violated the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) by failing to conduct timely inspections, properly remediate damaged asbestos, and report related issues as required under the law.
Counts include allegations of missed three-year inspections at seven schools, such as Charles W. Henry Elementary and Frankford High School, in addition to failure to complete required six-month surveillance inspections at Building 21 Alternative High School. The offenses allegedly occurred between June 2018 and April 2023.
Federal officials and the district have entered into a deferred prosecution agreement (DPA), which is pending judicial review. If approved, the agreement would mandate a five-year oversight period during which federal authorities would monitor compliance. Successful completion of the DPA could see criminal charges later dismissed, though violations could result in penalties.
“This deferred prosecution agreement, if approved, affords the government the highest available level of prosecutorial and judicial oversight over the School District of Philadelphia and its efforts to comply with its legal obligations to provide safe schools,” said U.S. Attorney David Metcalf in the announcement.
Investigators detailed the discovery of widespread asbestos contamination in the district, affecting 31 schools and, in some cases, forcing closures. Damaged asbestos, which poses serious health risks when airborne, was reportedly found unattended or unsafely addressed, including cases of improper remediation.
Charges outlined in the DPA are allegations, and the school district is entitled to due process in resolving these claims. Further updates on the case will be provided as they become available.
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