Billy L. Stevens, RCRA Violation, MO 1999

Kansas City, MO – Billy L. Stevens, former President and Director of Operations of RS Services, Inc. (doing business as Mizzou Painting and Special Coatings), was sentenced to over a year in prison for illegally storing hazardous waste, according to records unsealed this week. The case, brought by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights a pattern of environmental negligence that put the local community at risk.

For nearly two years, Stevens knowingly allowed the accumulation of dangerous petroleum-based wastes, chlorinated compounds, and spent solvents at the Mizzou facility. Crucially, RS Services, Inc. operated without the necessary permits required for handling such materials. Investigators discovered the improper storage created a potential health hazard, as exposure to these substances can lead to a range of illnesses, including respiratory problems and severe eye irritation.

The EPA initiated its investigation following a routine compliance check which revealed significant discrepancies in waste management practices. Evidence collected pointed directly to Stevens’s direct involvement in the decision to bypass regulatory requirements and store the waste improperly. Sources within the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) indicated the motivation appeared to be cost-cutting measures, prioritizing profit over public safety and environmental responsibility.

Stevens was formally charged on December 21, 1998, with violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), specifically 42 U.S.C. §6928(d)(2)(A), which addresses the knowing violation of RCRA regulations. He subsequently entered a guilty plea, acknowledging his culpability in the matter. The prosecution argued Stevens demonstrated a blatant disregard for environmental regulations and the wellbeing of the surrounding community.

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Sentencing and Penalties

On March 25, 1999, Stevens received a sentence of twelve months and one day of incarceration. This penalty reflects the seriousness of the offense and serves as a deterrent to others who might consider similar violations. In addition to the prison sentence, Stevens was also ordered to pay restitution to cover the costs of environmental remediation and cleanup at the Mizzou facility. The total amount of restitution has not been publicly disclosed.

This case underscores the EPA’s commitment to pursuing criminal enforcement actions against individuals and companies who endanger human health and the environment through illegal waste management practices. The GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments regarding the remediation of the Mizzou facility and any further legal actions related to this case.

Key Facts

Defendant: Billy L. Stevens
Company: RS Services, Inc. (Mizzou Painting and Special Coatings)
Location: Kansas City, Missouri
Statutes Violated: 42 U.S.C. §6928(d)(2)(A) – Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
Hazardous Materials: Petroleum-based wastes, chlorinated compounds, spent solvents
Sentence: 12 months and one day incarceration, plus restitution
Plea: Guilty
Timeline: Charges filed 12/21/98, Sentence 03/25/99

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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