Auto parts manufacturer Takata could be in some very serious trouble, as two U.S. senators asked that the Justice Department open a criminal probe to investigate allegations that the company had knowingly destroyed evidence prior to a widespread recall covering several manufacturers and millions of vehicles.
A report from the New York Times cited two former Takata employees who declined to be identified, as they claim Takata had secretly tested its airbags in 2004 to determine whether shrapnel could explode onto a front-seat passenger’s face upon making contact with the airbags. When it was discovered that such would be possible, the company supposedly hid the evidence. With this in mind, Democratic Senators Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut and Edward Markey of Massachusetts are now asking the Justice Department to take action.
“If the reports are true, the company must be held accountable for the horrific deaths and injuries that its wrongdoing caused,” the senators said in a prepared statement. “These allegations are credible and shocking — plainly warranting a prompt and aggressive criminal probe.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had previously given Takata up until December 1 to answer a questionnaire regarding its handling of the airbag situation, and to furnish materials connected to the case. If the Justice Department opens an investigation and Takata is found guilty, it could result in a significant fine and/or prison time for company executives.
Aside from the two New England senators, lawmakers from Missouri, Michigan, and California, have also asked the Justice Department to look into the allegations. In a statement issued today, Commerce Chairman Fred Upton asked that a hearing be held and referred to the allegations against Takata as “deeply troubling.”
The ongoing series of Takata airbag recalls has affected vehicles from Honda, Infiniti (pictured), Toyota, and at least 20 other carmakers.