Brian Dale Fleming, Dumping Grease into Waterway, Missouri 2015

In a shocking case of environmental disregard, Brian Dale Fleming, 50, of Cabool, MO, has been indicted for dumping grease into the Big Piney River. The incident occurred in March and April 2015, when Fleming’s company, BF Byproducts, LLC, allegedly discharged spent cooking oil, a pollutant, into the river.

The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, MO, charges Fleming and BF Byproducts with violating the Clean Water Act. The company, formerly known as Fleming Recycling, collects used grease from hundreds of restaurants in Missouri, Arkansas, and elsewhere, transporting it to the Cabool facility for recycling and resale.

According to the indictment, BF Byproducts and Fleming allegedly dumped the spent cooking oil into the Big Piney River, causing harm to the environment and potentially threatening public health. The exact amount of grease dumped is not specified in the indictment.

Tom Larson, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, cautioned that the charge contained in the indictment is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. However, the indictment serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting our nation’s waterways.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull II. It was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency – Criminal Investigation Division, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the Texas County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the Cabool, Mo., Police Department.

Fleming and BF Byproducts face serious consequences if found guilty. The Clean Water Act carries stiff penalties for violators, including fines and imprisonment. The exact sentence or outcome is yet to be determined.

This case highlights the need for businesses to prioritize environmental responsibility and adhere to regulations designed to protect our nation’s natural resources. The people of Missouri and beyond expect more from their corporate neighbors.

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