Andrew Thompson, Violation of the Clean Water Act, New York 2014
Andrew Thompson, Violation of the Clean Water Act, New York 2014
BUFFALO, N.Y. - In a shocking case of environmental negligence, Andrew Thompson, 34, of Westfield, N.Y., pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Water Act before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy.
Thompson, the Chief Operator of the Waste Water Treatment Plant for the Village of Westfield, N.Y., was aware of the discharge of untreated sewage into Chautauqua Creek due to a malfunction at the West Side Pump Station on June 12, 2014.
Instead of taking immediate action to rectify the situation, Thompson directed workers to discharge the untreated sewage into the creek the following day, June 13, 2014. This reckless act was in direct contravention of the Clean Water Act, which prohibits the discharge of untreated pollutants into waterways without a permit.
The plea is the result of an investigation by agents of the Environmental Protection Agency, under the direction of Vernesa Jones-Allen, Special Agent-In-Charge and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation under the direction of Captain Frank Lauricella.
Thompson faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a fine of up to $25,000 per day of violation. Sentencing is scheduled for August 16, 2016, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy.
The case highlights the importance of environmental regulation and the need for public officials to take their responsibilities seriously. The public demands accountability from those who break the law, and it is the duty of law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is served.
As a result of Thompson's actions, the community has been left to deal with the consequences of polluted waterways. It is imperative that those responsible for such negligence are held accountable and face the full force of the law.
The Village of Westfield has a responsibility to its citizens to provide safe and clean waterways. The actions of Andrew Thompson have compromised this responsibility and it is up to the court to determine the severity of his punishment.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Environmental Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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