Christopher Drake, Negligent Discharge Of Pollutants, Connecticut 2007

Stamford, CT – A Connecticut seaman was penalized for illegally dumping waste into Stamford Harbor in 2007, according to records unsealed this week by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Christopher Drake, a crew member aboard the vessel Jesse D, was found guilty of negligent discharge of pollutants into navigable waters, a violation of federal law.

The incident occurred during January and February of 2007 when approximately 13,500 gallons of wastewater slops, diesel fuel, and oil were released from the Jesse D into the harbor. Investigators from the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID) and the USCG collaborated on the investigation, tracing the source of the discharge back to Drake’s actions while aboard the vessel. The exact circumstances leading to the discharge remain largely undisclosed, though authorities confirmed the release posed a potential threat to the harbor’s delicate ecosystem and marine life.

Drake was formally charged on November 17, 2011, with one count of violating the Clean Water Act (CWA). The charges specifically cited 33 U.S.C. 1321(b)(3) and 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1), which address the negligent discharge of oil and other harmful substances into U.S. waterways. These statutes carry significant penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation and the extent of the damage caused.

Facing the charges, Drake entered a guilty plea. The case proceeded to sentencing on January 23, 2012, where Drake received a $25 special assessment fee and a $5,000 federal fine. While the financial penalties represent a degree of accountability, environmental advocacy groups have questioned whether the sentence adequately reflects the potential environmental damage caused by the illegal dumping. Concerns remain about the long-term effects on the harbor’s water quality and the health of its marine inhabitants.

The EPA and USCG routinely investigate and prosecute violations of the Clean Water Act to deter future pollution incidents and protect the nation’s waterways. This case serves as a reminder that individuals and companies alike are legally obligated to adhere to strict environmental regulations when operating on or near navigable waters. The agencies emphasize their commitment to holding polluters accountable for their actions and ensuring the preservation of vital aquatic resources.

Key Facts

Defendant: Christopher Drake
Crime: Negligent discharge of oil and wastewater into Stamford Harbor
Location: Stamford, Connecticut
Year: 2012 (incident occurred in 2007)
Statutes Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1321(b)(3) and 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1) – Clean Water Act
Penalty: $25 special assessment and $5,000 federal fine
Investigating Agencies: EPA-CID and U.S. Coast Guard
Amount Discharged: Approximately 13,500 gallons of wastewater slops, diesel fuel, and oil

GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

Related Federal Cases