The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced on May 15 that victims exposed to asbestos during work performed by John Eldon Rimmasch and Wasatch Railroad Contractors are now eligible to file restitution claims for medical testing.
This development follows a federal jury verdict in July 2022, which found Rimmasch and his company guilty of wire fraud and knowing endangerment after they failed to complete a restoration contract for the National Park Service and exposed workers, contractors, and guests to asbestos without proper safety measures. The case underscores ongoing efforts by authorities to ensure support for those affected by hazardous workplace conditions.
Following the trial, the court held several hearings to determine compensation for identified victims. Because asbestos exposure can cause serious health issues such as mesothelioma that may not appear immediately, the court ordered Rimmasch to pay funds into the Clerk of U.S. District Court for victim medical testing. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office collaborated with Wyoming Workforce Services so that victims could apply for workmen’s compensation covering these tests.
On May 7, letters were sent out notifying eligible individuals about available restitution options. Officials noted that some recipients might have changed addresses since initial notifications were sent out years ago; those seeking claim instructions are advised to contact Vicki Powell at the U.S. Attorney’s Office via phone or email.
“While no amount of money can undo the harm caused by unlawful asbestos exposure, this restitution process reflects our commitment to ensuring victims receive the medical testing and support ordered by the Court,” said U.S. Attorney Darin Smith. “Our office remains dedicated to holding offenders accountable and pursuing every available avenue to secure compensation for those affected by this conduct.”
The U.S. Attorney for the District of Wyoming advances public safety through crime trend analysis, law enforcement training, prosecution of federal crimes, civil litigation defense, and operates offices in Cheyenne, Casper, Lander, and Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park across its jurisdiction—which includes 23 counties spanning over 97,000 square miles with a population exceeding half a million—according to its official website.
