Bradley G. Beaudoin, Clean Water Act Violation, NH 2003

TROY, NH – Former Troy Water and Sewer Superintendent Bradley G. Beaudoin was sentenced in 2002 for illegally discharging raw sewage into a local waterway, a crime stemming from a years-long cover-up and neglect of critical infrastructure. The case, brought by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights a disturbing pattern of inaction and a deliberate failure to report environmental violations to the proper authorities.

According to court documents, Beaudoin authorized the installation of a bypass pipe at the Troy Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) approximately three years prior to the charges being filed. This bypass was implemented not to improve treatment, but to circumvent a leaking knife valve, preventing sewage overflow into a sewer access pit. Instead of repairing the faulty valve, the bypass directed untreated wastewater directly into a nearby stream.

The illegal discharge continued “off and on” for a full three years. Crucially, Beaudoin, along with other town officials including members of the Troy Water and Sewer Board and Town Selectmen, were aware of the situation. Despite this knowledge, no notification was made to either the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) or the EPA Region 1, a direct violation of federal environmental regulations.

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Timeline of Justice

The EPA’s investigation led to criminal charges being filed on April 23, 2002, against both Beaudoin and a co-defendant, Lawrence (last name not publicly released in available records). Both men were charged with one count of violating the Clean Water Act, specifically 33 U.S.C. 1311, pertaining to effluent limitations and the illegal discharge of pollutants. Lawrence pled guilty, and on September 24, 2002, Beaudoin followed suit. Beaudoin received a harsher sentence, reflecting his position of authority and direct responsibility for the bypass installation.

On October 9, 2002, Beaudoin was sentenced to six months of incarceration, followed by a 12-month probationary period. He was also ordered to pay a $2,000 federal fine. Lawrence received a lighter sentence of 12 months probation and a $2,000 fine. The relatively lenient penalties, while representing a conviction, have drawn criticism from environmental advocacy groups who argue that they fail to adequately address the severity of the long-term pollution and the deliberate attempt to conceal it.

Key Facts

Defendant: Bradley G. Beaudoin
Crime: Illegal discharge of raw sewage, violating the Clean Water Act
Location: Troy, New Hampshire
Years of Violation: Approximately three years (discharge from 2000-2002)
Statute Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1311
Penalties: Beaudoin – 6 months incarceration, 12 months probation, $2,000 fine. Lawrence – 12 months probation, $2,000 fine.
Cause: A leaking knife valve at the Troy WWTP was bypassed, directing raw sewage into a stream.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of infrastructure maintenance and the legal and ethical obligations of public officials to report environmental violations. The EPA continues to pursue enforcement actions against individuals and municipalities who prioritize cost-cutting and convenience over environmental protection and public health.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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