Attorney general, RIDOH take action against Providence landlords for lead violations

PROVIDENCE, MASS. (WLNE)- Attorney General Peter F. Neronha announced on Thursday action being taken against two Providence landlords who own properties with multiple cases of lead poisoning in children.

One of two properties owned by Mark O’Day and David Buda has been the center of several lead hazards.

The Rhode Island Department of Health conducted an inspection at the property, after a child recently tested positive for elevated blood levels of lead.

Lead hazards were found in bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and soil around the property.

At least two additional children have been lead poisoned at the property since the Defendants took ownership of the property built in the 1900s.

RIDOH previously issued two violations to the landlords but the conditions failed to be resolved.

A copy of a complaint filed with Providence Superior Court shows that charges against O’Day and Buda include Violation of State Lead Poisoning Prevention Laws, Penalties for Violations, Public Nuisance, Injunctive Relief, and Receivership.

If the outstanding violations are not corrected, the landlords could be subject to penalties of up to $5000 per day that the lead hazard violations existed at the property.

“Every child in every home in Rhode Island deserves to be safe from lead paint poisoning,” said AG Neronha.

“Remedying this major public health issue can very often be accomplished quickly and inexpensively by landlords. The failure of some to do so indicates one thing: they value their bottom-line rent receipts over the health of children. This Office will continue to stand up for children and hold these landlords accountable,” continues AG Neronha.