Carlton Finley, Violating Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code 842(j), Hawaii 2017

Waipahu, HI – Carlton Finley, former project manager for Donaldson Enterprises, Inc. (DEI), received one year of probation on August 16, 2017, following a guilty plea related to a deadly 2011 fireworks explosion in Waipahu, Hawaii. The incident, which occurred at a Waikele Self Storage facility leased by DEI, claimed the lives of five DEI employees.

The explosion and subsequent fire erupted on April 8, 2011, at approximately 8:50 am within a storage magazine used by DEI for the handling and disposal of seized fireworks. Investigators determined the blast was a direct result of improper storage practices. Finley, as project manager, bore responsibility for overseeing these procedures.

While initially facing potential felony charges, Finley ultimately pleaded guilty to a single misdemeanor count of violating Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. 842(j). This statute addresses the unlawful storage of explosive materials. The reduced charge and subsequent probation sentence have drawn scrutiny from some, considering the tragic loss of life.

According to court documents and EPA investigations, DEI was contracted to manage and dispose of seized and forfeited fireworks on behalf of various government agencies. The Waikele facility served as a central hub for this operation. Evidence suggested a failure to adhere to established safety protocols, contributing to the unstable conditions that led to the catastrophic explosion. The investigation revealed inconsistencies in inventory control and a disregard for proper segregation of explosive materials.

The families of the deceased employees have expressed continued frustration with the handling of the case. While the guilty plea represents a degree of accountability, they argue that the misdemeanor charge and lenient sentence do not adequately reflect the severity of the negligence and the devastating consequences. Legal experts suggest the case highlights the challenges in prosecuting corporations and individuals involved in hazardous materials handling, particularly when demonstrating direct intent or willful disregard for safety regulations.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Carlton Finley
Location: Waikele Self Storage, Waipahu, Hawaii
Date of Incident: April 8, 2011
Fatalities: 5 DEI employees
Statute Violated: 18 U.S.C. 842(j) – Improper storage of explosive materials
Penalty: One year of probation, issued August 16, 2017
Company Involved: Donaldson Enterprises, Inc. (DEI)

GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers associated with explosive materials and the critical importance of stringent safety regulations and diligent oversight.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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