Cecil Curry, Illegal Dumping, OH 2004

Cincinnati, OH – A Cincinnati man was sentenced to jail time in 2004 for his role in the illegal dumping of hazardous waste in the city’s historic Over-The-Rhine neighborhood. Cecil Curry, 55, pleaded guilty to two counts related to the abandonment of approximately twenty-five 55-gallon drums of hazardous paint waste discovered on January 3, 2003, at a vacant lot located at 10-12 East 14th Street.

The investigation, led by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, revealed that Curry was hired by property owner, Fay, to dispose of the drums. Instead of following proper disposal procedures, Curry illegally dumped the waste, creating a potential environmental and public health hazard in a densely populated area. The abandoned drums contained a variety of paint waste, posing risks from chemical exposure and soil contamination.

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Timeline of Events

On April 21, 2004, Curry and Fay were formally charged with multiple violations of Ohio Revised Code. The charges included ORC 3734.11, pertaining to prohibitions concerning the open dumping of solid waste; ORC 2909.06, covering offenses against public health and safety; and ORC 3734.02, which addresses the handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste. These statutes collectively aim to protect Ohio’s environment and citizens from the dangers of improperly managed waste.

Curry entered a guilty plea on May 6, 2004, and was subsequently sentenced to six months of incarceration followed by a twelve-month period of probation. Notably, no fine was imposed as part of his sentence. Fay, who bore greater responsibility for initiating the illegal disposal, faced a significantly harsher penalty. On June 1, 2004, Fay pleaded guilty to six counts and received a 24-month prison sentence, followed by a 36-month probation period.

Financial Penalties & Restitution

In addition to incarceration and probation, Fay was ordered to pay $16,000 in restitution to both the Ohio EPA and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, covering the costs associated with the cleanup and investigation of the illegal dumping site. Furthermore, Fay was assessed a substantial state fine of $50,000. The financial penalties underscore the severity of the offense and the commitment of Ohio authorities to holding individuals accountable for environmental crimes.

Environmental Impact & Community Concerns

The Over-The-Rhine neighborhood, already facing numerous challenges, was particularly vulnerable to the effects of this illegal dumping. Residents expressed concerns about the potential for soil and water contamination, as well as the immediate health risks posed by the hazardous materials. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible waste management and the potential consequences of prioritizing cost-cutting measures over environmental protection.

Key Facts

Defendant: Cecil Curry
Crime: Illegal Dumping of Hazardous Waste
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio (Over-The-Rhine neighborhood)
Date of Dumping: Approximately January 3, 2003
Statutes Violated: ORC 3734.11, ORC 2909.06, ORC 3734.02
Curry’s Sentence: 6 months incarceration, 12 months probation
Fay’s Sentence: 24 months incarceration, 36 months probation, $16,000 restitution, $50,000 fine
Approximately 25 55-gallon drums of paint waste were illegally dumped.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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