Brian Lee Cobb, Hazardous Waste Transportation, West Virginia 2014

West Virginia – Brian Lee Cobb, a 49-year-old Ohio resident, was sentenced to two years in federal prison on February 20, 2014, following a conviction for illegally transporting hazardous waste and obstructing a federal investigation. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights the agency’s continued focus on prosecuting individuals who endanger public health and the environment through unlawful waste disposal practices.

According to court documents, Cobb knowingly facilitated the transportation of hazardous waste without the legally required manifest—a detailed tracking document ensuring proper handling and disposal. This omission represents a significant breach of regulations designed to prevent environmental contamination and protect communities from exposure to dangerous materials. The lack of a manifest makes it impossible to trace the waste’s origin, destination, and handling procedures, increasing the risk of improper disposal and potential harm.

The investigation further revealed that Cobb actively concealed material facts from authorities during questioning. This obstruction of justice charge stemmed from deliberate attempts to mislead investigators about his involvement in the illicit waste transport. Federal prosecutors argued that Cobb’s false statements undermined the integrity of the regulatory system and hampered efforts to identify and address the environmental risks posed by the illegal activity.

“COBB allowed the illegal transportation of hazardous waste with no regard for the dangers it posed,” stated David G. McLeod, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s criminal enforcement program for the Mid-Atlantic region. “False statements seriously weaken the integrity of the entire system. Today’s sentencing demonstrates that those who refuse to comply with the law, putting the public and the environment at risk, will be vigorously prosecuted.”

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Legal Ramifications

Cobb was convicted under 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(5), pertaining to the unlawful transportation of hazardous waste, and 18 U.S.C. 1001(a)(1), covering false statements to federal investigators. The sentence includes 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. This case serves as a deterrent, signaling that intentional violations of environmental regulations and attempts to deceive law enforcement will result in significant penalties.

Key Facts

Defendant: Brian Lee Cobb
State: West Virginia
Year: 2014
Charges: Transportation of Hazardous Waste without a Manifest, Concealment of a Material Fact
Statutes Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(5), 18 U.S.C. 1001(a)(1)
Sentence: 24 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release

The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Perry McDaniel, working in conjunction with the EPA’s criminal investigation team. The case underscores the collaborative effort between federal agencies to enforce environmental laws and hold accountable those who prioritize profit over public safety and environmental stewardship.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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