New Haven, CT – Anthony Richardi, formerly associated with Earth Technology, Inc. (ETI), was sentenced in December 2006 following a guilty plea related to a significant oil spill and subsequent cover-up that impacted wetlands and navigable waters in New Haven, Connecticut. The incident, originating in 1999, saw an estimated 30,000 gallons of waste oil released due to a failure to properly secure a storage tank at an ETI facility.
The spill, initially downplayed in reports to as little as 900 gallons, quickly drew the attention of the U.S. Coast Guard after an oil sheen was observed on the water. This discrepancy between the reported amount and the actual volume released raised immediate concerns about potential negligence and deliberate misreporting by those responsible for containment and reporting at the spill site. Investigators later determined ETI and Richardi knowingly minimized the extent of the damage.
Investigation and Charges
The case, pursued by federal authorities, revealed a pattern of deceit intended to shield ETI and Richardi from the full consequences of the environmental damage. On November 3, 2006, Richardi was formally charged with one count of embezzlement of public money, property, or records, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 641. Simultaneously, ETI was charged with one count of mail fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1341, stemming from the use of the postal service in connection with the deceptive reporting of the spill’s size.
Guilty Pleas and Sentencing
Both Richardi and ETI swiftly entered guilty pleas on November 22, 2006. The sentencing, handed down on December 21, 2006, reflected the severity of the offenses. Richardi received a 12-month probationary sentence, a $25 special assessment fee, and a $1,000 federal fine, which was ultimately suspended contingent upon the full restitution paid by ETI. ETI, as a corporate entity, faced a more substantial penalty: 24 months of probation, a $500,000 federal fine, a $400 special assessment fee, and a mandated restitution payment of $26,035 to the State of Connecticut to cover remediation costs.
Environmental Impact and Aftermath
The oil spill caused significant damage to the sensitive wetlands ecosystem in New Haven, impacting local wildlife and potentially contaminating water sources. While the restitution payment addressed a portion of the immediate cleanup expenses, the long-term ecological consequences of the spill remain a concern. This case highlights the critical importance of responsible waste management practices and the severe legal repercussions for those who prioritize profit over environmental protection.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Anthony Richardi & Earth Technology, Inc.
- Location: New Haven, Connecticut
- Incident Date: 1999 (Spill), 2006 (Charges & Sentencing)
- Oil Released: Approximately 30,000 gallons
- Laws Violated: 18 U.S.C. § 641 (Embezzlement), 18 U.S.C. § 1341 (Mail Fraud)
- Penalties: Richardi – 12 months probation, $1,025 in fines/fees. ETI – 24 months probation, $500,400 in fines/fees, $26,035 restitution.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments related to environmental crimes and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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