Olympia, WA – Chemical manufacturer CH20, Inc. and five individuals faced federal charges in 1997 following a disturbing case of illegal toxic waste disposal that sickened workers and polluted the Olympia, Washington sewer system. The scheme, uncovered in February 1995, involved deliberately discharging chemical-laden wastewater directly into the city’s publicly owned treatment works (POTW).
According to court documents, CH20, specializing in boiler treatment and janitorial chemicals, routinely washed drums returned by customers containing chemical residues. Rather than properly disposing of the contaminated wash water, the company illegally connected a line to a toilet cleanout at a nearby warehouse. For over three years – from June 1992 to August 1995 – this makeshift system allowed CH20 to funnel hazardous waste into the municipal sewer, bypassing environmental regulations and endangering public health.
The illicit activity came to light when a POTW employee was overcome by noxious chemical fumes emanating from the incoming wastewater. Investigators traced the source back to CH20’s drum washing operation, revealing a deliberate effort to cut corners and avoid the costs associated with legal waste disposal. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) led the investigation, resulting in charges against the corporation and five of its employees: Iverson, Bucco, Wilsie, and Mickelson.
The legal fallout unfolded swiftly. All five individuals were initially charged with violating the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1319), which prohibits knowingly violating effluent standards. CH20, Iverson, and Bucco also faced conspiracy charges under 18 U.S.C. 371. Plea bargains were reached with Wilsie, Mickelson, and Bucco, who each admitted to violating the Clean Water Act. Iverson, however, opted for a trial and was ultimately convicted on all counts.
Sentencing & Penalties
In February 1998, the court handed down the following sentences:
- CH20, Inc.: 36 months probation and a $150,000 fine.
- Iverson: 12 months incarceration, 36 months probation, and a $75,000 fine.
- Bucco: 24 months probation and a $2,000 fine.
- Wilsie: Four months probation and a $1,000 fine.
- Mickelson: 24 months probation and a $2,000 fine.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of environmental crimes and the importance of adhering to regulations designed to protect public health and the environment.
Key Facts
- Defendant: CH20, Inc. and five individuals
- Location: Olympia, Washington
- Dates of Violation: June 1992 – August 1995
- Statutes Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1319 (Clean Water Act), 18 U.S.C. 371 (Conspiracy)
- Discovery: Chemical fumes at POTW sickened employee
- Method of Disposal: Illegal connection to sewer system via toilet cleanout
GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases and report on the prosecution of those who endanger our communities.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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