Anthony Concrete Supply, Pollution, NY 2004

Brooklyn, NY – Anthony Concrete Supply Corporation and one of its principals faced federal charges and substantial penalties after illegally discharging pollutants into New York City’s storm drain system, according to court records unsealed this week. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP), highlights ongoing concerns about industrial compliance with environmental regulations.

The investigation began with routine inspections of Anthony Ready Mix, a facility operated by Anthony Concrete Supply, located in Brooklyn. EPA inspectors discovered unpermitted discharges flowing directly into nearby storm drains. These discharges, containing materials from the concrete mixing process, violated the Clean Water Act (CWA) and posed a potential threat to local waterways and infrastructure. A follow-up inspection by the NYCDEP confirmed damage to the storm drain system in the affected area, exacerbating the severity of the violation.

Federal prosecutors charged the corporation with negligent violations of the CWA on September 30, 2002, specifically citing 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)(A), which prohibits the negligent discharge of pollutants from a point source into navigable waters without a permit. The investigation revealed a pattern of non-compliance, prompting a plea agreement reached in May 2004.

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Penalties and Sentencing

On May 5, 2004, Anthony Concrete Supply Corporation pled guilty to fourteen counts of violating the Clean Water Act. The company was sentenced to twelve months of probation on each count, to run concurrently. In addition to probation, the court ordered the corporation to pay a hefty $64,000 federal fine, as well as a $5,600 special assessment fee. The penalties are intended to serve as both punishment for the illegal activity and a deterrent to future violations.

The case didn’t end with the corporation. Vincent Valente, a principal associated with Anthony Concrete Supply, also faced criminal charges. Valente pled guilty to one count of violating the CWA and received a sentence of 36 months probation. He was further ordered to pay a $25 special assessment and a substantial $100,000 federal fine. Holding individuals accountable alongside corporations is a key strategy in EPA enforcement, aiming to ensure responsible oversight and compliance within companies.

Key Facts

Defendant: Anthony Concrete Supply Corporation
State: New York
Year: 2004
Crime: Clean Water Act Violations
Statute Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)(A) – Negligent Discharge
Corporate Penalty: 12 months probation (concurrent on 14 counts), $64,000 fine, $5,600 assessment
Individual Penalty (Valente): 36 months probation, $100,000 fine, $25 assessment
Investigation Agencies: EPA, NYC Department of Environmental Protection

This case serves as a stark reminder that environmental crimes carry significant legal and financial consequences. The EPA continues to prioritize enforcement of the Clean Water Act to protect the nation’s waterways and ensure that businesses operate responsibly and sustainably. GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental enforcement cases and report on efforts to hold polluters accountable.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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