Buryl H. Head, Hazardous Waste Dumping, TX 1999

Williamson County, TX – Buryl H. Head, the former owner of Texas Metal Finishing (TMF), was sentenced to federal prison in September 1999 after pleading guilty to illegally dumping hazardous waste in a remote area of Williamson County, Texas. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), revealed a deliberate attempt to circumvent environmental regulations following the closure of Head’s metal finishing business.

According to court documents, Head personally disposed of corrosive chemical waste at an undisclosed location on two separate occasions. These wastes, legally classified as hazardous under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), posed a significant threat to both human health and the local wildlife. Corrosive materials are known to cause severe burns upon contact, amplifying the danger presented by Head’s actions.

The EPA’s investigation began after concerns were raised regarding the abandoned TMF facility and the potential for environmental contamination. Investigators quickly focused on Head, uncovering evidence that he had not only improperly disposed of the hazardous waste but had also made false statements during the inquiry, attempting to conceal his involvement. The scheme was uncovered in May of 1999, with charges filed shortly thereafter.

Head was initially charged with multiple federal crimes on May 14, 1999, including violations of 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) – knowingly treating, storing, or disposing of hazardous waste – as well as making false statements in violation of 18 U.S.C. 1001, and aiding and abetting, under 18 U.S.C. 2. He ultimately pled guilty to the RCRA violation on June 29, 1999.

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Sentencing & Restitution

On September 16, 1999, Head received a 60-month (five-year) prison sentence for his crimes. In addition to incarceration, he was sentenced to 36 months of probation upon his release. The court also ordered Head to pay a $100 special assessment and $25,490 in restitution to the State of Texas to cover the costs associated with the cleanup and environmental remediation efforts stemming from his illegal dumping.

Key Facts

Defendant: Buryl H. Head
Business: Former owner of Texas Metal Finishing (TMF)
Location: Williamson County, Texas
Crime: Illegal dumping of hazardous, corrosive chemical waste
Statutes Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A), 18 U.S.C. 1001, 18 U.S.C. 2
Sentence: 60 months incarceration, 36 months probation, $25,490 restitution

This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences associated with environmental crimes and the EPA’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for endangering public health and the environment. The illegal disposal of hazardous waste not only poses immediate risks but can also lead to long-term contamination and significant cleanup costs.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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