Lake Charles, Louisiana – Former Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Deputies Cecil Morgan and an accomplice, identified as Himes, were sentenced in December 1994 for illegally dumping hazardous waste, creating a dangerous situation for inmates and violating federal environmental laws. The incident, which occurred in September 1994, involved the relocation and disposal of evidence seized by law enforcement, including drug paraphernalia, suspected drug lab chemicals, and other unidentified chemical waste.
According to court documents, Morgan and Himes moved the materials from a storage shed to the grounds of the Calcasieu Parish Corrections Center. Instead of properly disposing of the potentially dangerous substances, they directed inmates to assist in dumping the waste into a pit. The hasty and negligent handling of the materials resulted in numerous glass containers breaking, releasing a chemical cloud as the substances mixed. Several inmates immediately reported experiencing throat irritation, including choking and burning sensations, raising serious health concerns.
The actions of Morgan and Himes were quickly investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and led to criminal charges being filed on September 30, 1994. Both deputies were charged with violating the Clean Air Act (CAA), specifically 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4), which addresses negligent endangerment related to hazardous waste handling. Notably, both men entered guilty pleas on the same day as their arraignment, seemingly opting to avoid a protracted legal battle.
Investigation & Aftermath
The EPA’s investigation revealed a blatant disregard for proper hazardous waste disposal procedures. The use of inmates to handle the unknown chemicals without protective gear or adequate training significantly exacerbated the risk to human health and the environment. The incident highlights the critical need for law enforcement agencies to adhere to strict protocols when dealing with seized hazardous materials.
While the immediate health impacts on the inmates were not fully detailed in available records, the incident underscores the potential for long-term consequences from exposure to unidentified chemical compounds. The case also raises questions about oversight and accountability within the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Department regarding evidence handling and disposal practices.
Penalties & Legal Ramifications
On December 15, 1994, Morgan and Himes received a sentence of six months probation each, along with a $6,000 fine. While the penalties represent a conviction for environmental crimes, some critics argue that the sentence was lenient considering the potential harm caused by the negligent dumping. The case serves as a reminder that even seemingly minor violations of environmental regulations can carry significant legal consequences.
Key Facts
- Defendant(s): Cecil Morgan & Himes
- Location: Calcasieu Parish Corrections Center, Louisiana
- Date of Incident: September 1994
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4) – Clean Air Act (Negligent Endangerment)
- Penalty: Six months probation & $6,000 fine per defendant
- Details: Deputies illegally dumped drug evidence & chemical waste, exposing inmates to hazardous materials.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental crime cases and provide updates as they become available.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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