Grace defense puts medical expert in hot seat

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Grace defense puts medical expert in hot seat

Seattle Times - United States

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008843474_apmtasbestostrial1stl\

dwritethru.html

The lead defense counsel for W.R. Grace & Co. tried to blunt a medical expert's

influence on jurors Wednesday by casting doubt on the witness' credibility and

scientific methodology.

MISSOULA, Mont. —

The lead defense counsel for W.R. Grace & Co. tried to blunt a medical expert's

influence on jurors Wednesday by casting doubt on the witness' credibility and

scientific methodology.

Dr. Aubrey underwent an intense cross-examination by attorney

Bernick, one day after giving a sweeping assessment of the U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency's arrival and response to Libby's deadly asbestos

contamination.

The Missoulian newspaper reported Wednesday's proceedings on its Web site.

Bernick sought to undermine 's expertise and pointed to discrepancies in

his scientific analysis. He also accused and the EPA of covering up data

that was unfavorable to the prosecution's case.

Bernick implied that 's testimony greatly exaggerated the risks that

asbestos posed to Libby residents. The lawyer introduced EPA documents stating

that no hazards existed to people simply breathing Libby's ambient air.

In one letter to a concerned real estate developer, the EPA's onsite

coordinator, Peronard, wrote: " I have seen no evidence to indicate there is

any risk of exposure to asbestos fibers simply by breathing the outdoor air in

Libby. "

At issue in the Montana trial is whether Columbia, Md.-based Grace and five

one-time company officials knew they were endangering the community of Libby by

mining asbestos-laced ore, and whether they did so in violation of federal law.

Asbestos has sickened about 2,000 Libby residents and caused more than 200

deaths, according to attorneys for the residents.

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Information from: Missoulian, http://www.missoulian.com