Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi investigating Cape, Collier debris contractor

FORT MYERS, Fla. The contractor that Cape Coral and Collier County hired to clear Hurricane Irma debris is under investigation by Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Bondi’s office is reviewing contracts and gathering information related to delays and potential price increases for debris removal by AshBritt Inc.

Two other companies, Ceres Environmental Services, Inc. and DRC Emergency Services Inc., have also been served with investigative subpoenas based on information that they may have also sought increased rates for debris removal, Bondi’s office said.

MORE: Collier County manager: Debris cleanup to take 4-6 months

“Sitting debris is a health and safety hazard and needs to be removed as soon as possible — but instead of doing their jobs and helping Floridians recover, apparently some contractors are delaying the work or requesting higher rates,” Bondi said in a statement.

The subpoenas seek documents showing whether the contractors are providing services they’re contracted for, the estimated time for completion of debris removal, what rates are being charged, and whether these rates have been increased, according to Bondi’s office.

Also included in the subpoenas are requests for information relating to subcontractors.

Below is a copy of the subpoena served to Ashbritt: