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The government awards contracts to companies with histories of misconduct such as contract fraud and environmental, ethics, and labor violations. In the absence of a centralized federal database listing instances of misconduct, the Project On Government Oversight (POGO) is providing such data. We believe that it will lead to improved contracting decisions and public access to information about how the government spends hundreds of billions of taxpayer money each year on goods and services. Report an instance of misconduct »

Exxon Mobil

Minton v. BP Products North America, et al. (Asbestos Exposure)

Date: 03/17/2011 (Date of Verdict)

Misconduct Type: Health

Enforcement Agency: Non-Governmental

Contracting Party: None

Court Type: Civil

Amount: $25,361,928

Disposition: Judgment Against Defendant

Synopsis: Rubert “Bert” Minton worked at Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Inc. (formerly known as Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company) from 1956 to 1979 as a shipfitter and commercial ship repair foreman and supervisor. During his time at the shipyard, Minton worked on 17 Exxon commercial oil tankers, which allegedly contained asbestos. In 2009, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma. In March 2011, a Virginia jury awarded him more than $25 million in damages, including $12 million in compensatory damages, $862,000 in medical expenses and interest, and $12.5 million in punitive damages.