Sun Valley Scrap Metal Recycler, Owners Charged

LOS ANGELES, CA — A Sun Valley scrap metal recycler and its owners and operators are facing misdemeanor charges for allegedly failing to properly store and dispose of hazardous waste, the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office announced Tuesday.

Brian Kassoff, 52, Carlos Almazan, 43, and their business, ANK Metal Recycling LP, are scheduled to be arraigned June 2 on 19 misdemeanor counts alleging violations of the state Health and Safety Code.

The criminal complaint alleges that Kassoff and Almazan, through ANK Metal Recycling, illegally disposed of or improperly stored multiple toxic and hazardous substances in May 2016.

The facility — at 8832 Brandley Ave. — recycles scrap metals, e-waste, universal waste and appliances, according to the City Attorney's Office.

"My office aggressively enforces our hazardous waste laws to protect public health and our environment," said City Attorney Mike Feuer. "Businesses that handle potentially dangerous materials have an obligation to dispose of them in a proper, lawful manner. When they allegedly don't meet that obligation, we'll fight to hold them accountable."

Hansen Pang, chief investigator for the Department of Toxic Substances Control's Office of Criminal Investigations, said the facility is "in one of California's most vulnerable communities."

"We are creating strategies and looking for additional resources to ensure companies like this meet regulations, and that residents in these areas are protected," Pang said.

The charges stem from three separate investigations conducted by the Department of Toxic Substances Control, with the case being referred to the City Attorney's Environmental Justice Unit for prosecution.

If convicted as charged, the defendants could face up to 11 years and six months in jail and $415,000 in fines, according to the City Attorney's Office.

— City News Service, photo via Shutterstock