A-1 Disposal Corporation, Hazardous Waste Fraud, MI 1989

Plainwell, MI – A-1 Disposal Corporation and its president, Richard Shumaker, were sentenced in July 1989 following a guilty plea to federal charges of illegally handling and misrepresenting hazardous waste. The case, stemming from an investigation into the company’s waste disposal practices, highlights a significant instance of environmental crime and regulatory evasion in Michigan.

The investigation, which culminated in a four-count indictment in February 1989, revealed a pattern of deliberate misconduct by A-1 Disposal. The company, engaged in the generation, transport, treatment, storage, and disposal of industrial waste – including materials classified as hazardous – systematically violated federal regulations designed to protect public health and the environment. Authorities allege the company prioritized profit over compliance, resulting in dangerous and illegal waste handling practices.

According to court documents, A-1 Disposal knowingly transported hazardous waste to an unpermitted facility, a direct violation of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Further exacerbating the situation, the company was accused of actively concealing the hazardous nature of the waste by painting over or removing warning labels. This act not only deceived regulators but also endangered those handling the materials and potentially exposed the public to significant risks.

The indictment also detailed instances where A-1 Disposal transported hazardous waste *without* the required manifest – a critical tracking document that ensures proper handling and accountability throughout the waste disposal process. This lack of documentation made it impossible to trace the waste’s origin, destination, and treatment, effectively creating a loophole for illegal dumping and environmental damage. The initial charges included a count of making false statements under Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. 1001, related to documentation submitted to regulatory agencies.

Ultimately, A-1 Disposal Corporation and Richard Shumaker each pled guilty to one count of violating 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(1), pertaining to the knowing transport of hazardous waste to an unpermitted facility. The sentencing, handed down on July 31, 1989, included a hefty $200,000 fine, $90,000 in restitution to the waste generators, and an additional $11,202 paid to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to cover costs associated with the investigation and remediation. Both the company and Shumaker were also placed on 36 months of probation and ordered to pay a $200 assessment to the Crime Victim’s Fund.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: A-1 Disposal Corporation and Richard Shumaker
Location: Plainwell, Michigan
Year: 1989
Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 1001, 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(1), 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(3), 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(5)
Penalties: $200,000 fine, $101,202 restitution, 36 months probation, $200 Crime Victim’s Fund assessment
Crime: Illegal transportation and misrepresentation of hazardous waste. Specifically, transporting to unpermitted facilities, falsifying labels, and lack of proper manifests.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of strict adherence to environmental regulations and the consequences of prioritizing profit over public safety. The GrimyTimes will continue to follow and report on environmental crimes, holding polluters accountable for their actions.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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