Project Manager Pleads Guilty to Submitting Fake Wetlands Fill Permit

Project Manager Pleads Guilty to Submitting Fake Wetlands Fill Permit

In a recent turn of events, Fiona Skye McKenna, a project manager for a property development firm, has pleaded guilty to submitting a fake wetlands fill permit. McKenna admitted to falsifying permits purportedly issued by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which resulted in the illegal discharge of pollutants in connection with a project called the International Industrial Park. By cutting and pasting from permits obtained for work at another site, McKenna deceived the San Diego County Land Development Office and obtained a grading permit, allowing the firm to proceed with the dumping of fill dirt, rock, and sand into Johnson Canyon Creek. The implications of this case, which is currently being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Melanie K. Pierson, extend beyond legal consequences and shed light on the importance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance.

Project Manager Pleads Guilty to Submitting Fake Wetlands Fill Permit

Curious about your city’s darkest crime stories? Dive in here!

Summary of the Case

In a recent court hearing, Fiona Skye McKenna, a project manager for a firm developing properties in the Otay Mesa area, admitted to submitting a fake permit for the fill of wetlands. McKenna pleaded guilty to the charges of falsifying permits, leading to the illegal discharge of pollutants in connection with the International Industrial Park project. This article will provide an overview of the case, background information, details of the illegal discharge, consequences of the action, and the upcoming sentencing date.

Background Information

The project in question is located in the Otay Mesa area of San Diego. The firm responsible for developing the properties in this area has been undertaking various construction projects. The International Industrial Park project is one such development that has faced legal complications due to the fake permit submission.

Overview of the Defendant

Fiona Skye McKenna, the project manager for the firm, played a central role in the International Industrial Park project. As a project manager, her responsibilities included overseeing the development and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and permits. McKenna’s identification and personal details have been presented in court.

Charge against the Defendant

The charge against Fiona Skye McKenna is related to the illegal discharge of pollutants into the wetlands. This action is in violation of Title 33, U.S.C., Sections 1311(a) and 1319(c)(2)(A) of the United States Code. If convicted, McKenna could face a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a fine ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 per day of violation.

Importance of Wetlands

Wetlands play a vital role in our ecosystem, providing numerous functions and benefits. They serve as crucial habitats for a diverse array of plants and animals, offering them food and shelter. Wetlands also act as buffers against flooding and erosion, contribute to water quality improvement, and play a vital role in the global water cycle. Their ability to absorb water helps to control flood waters and storm surges, while their root systems hold soil in place and filter pollutants.

Details of the Illegal Discharge of Pollutants

The illegal discharge of pollutants occurred at the International Industrial Park site, specifically in Johnson Canyon Creek. The discharge involved the use of dump trucks and heavy-duty machinery to place fill dirt, rock, and sand into the wetlands area of the creek. Ultimately, this pollution made its way into the Otay River, which flows into San Diego Bay. The size and scope of the discharge have been identified, and authorities are working to assess the potential damage caused.

Forged Permits and Submissions

McKenna admitted to forging permits purportedly issued by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. To create these fake permits, she cut and pasted information from permits the firm had obtained for work at another site. These forged permits were then submitted to the San Diego County Land Development Office as part of the application process for a grading permit.

Consequences of the Discharge

The illegal discharge of pollutants into the wetlands has had severe environmental consequences. It has disrupted the ecosystem of Johnson Canyon Creek and poses a potential threat to the wetlands’ health. The pollution can adversely affect the water quality, harm aquatic life, and cause ecosystem imbalances. These consequences highlight the significance of protecting wetland areas and ensuring they are not subjected to illegal activities.

Eager to uncover your city’s sinister side? Explore the latest crime news here!

Sentencing Date

Fiona Skye McKenna’s sentencing is scheduled for January 19, 2024, at 9:00 a.m., before U.S. District Judge Ruth B. Montenegro. During the sentencing hearing, the court will consider all relevant factors and determine an appropriate punishment for McKenna’s actions.

Prosecution and Legal Representation

The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Melanie K. Pierson. Pierson will present the evidence and arguments against McKenna, aiming to secure a conviction. McKenna, on the other hand, will be represented by legal counsel who will work to defend her interests and mitigate the potential penalties she may face.

In conclusion, Fiona Skye McKenna’s admission of guilt in federal court has shed light on the submission of a fake permit for the fill of wetlands. This illegal discharge of pollutants has had significant environmental consequences and highlights the importance of protecting wetlands. With the upcoming sentencing date, the court will determine the appropriate penalty for McKenna’s actions, as presented by the prosecution and defended by her legal representation.

Discover the underbelly of crime in your city; click for the raw stories!

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/project-manager-admits-submitting-fake-permit-fill-wetlands

I'm Jesse, a retired Infantry Paratrooper and I am the mind behind Grimy Times - your portal to the darkest, grittiest news stories spanning the globe. I bring you the most unearthed stories, guaranteeing authenticity without sugarcoating. From shadowy urban alleys to the most remote corners of our planet, my coverage knows no bounds.