Charles G. Hungler, Jr., Violating the Clean Water Act, Kentucky 2006

Frankfort, KY – Charles G. Hungler, Jr., owner and operator of Perfect A Waste Sewage Equipment Company, was sentenced in November 2006 following a guilty plea related to falsifying reports submitted to Kentucky environmental authorities. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and prosecuted by the Department of Justice, reveals a deliberate attempt to mislead regulators regarding the operation of the Edgewood Sewage Treatment Plant in Franklin County.

According to court documents, Hungler knowingly submitted a Discharge Monitoring Report (DMR) in July 2005 containing inaccurate data. The report, filed with the Kentucky Environment and Public Protection Cabinet, falsely indicated compliance with wastewater discharge standards. Investigators determined that the required number of wastewater samples had not been collected, and the submitted results were fabricated, creating a false impression of the plant’s operational integrity.

The EPA’s criminal enforcement program targets individuals and companies who knowingly violate environmental laws, ensuring accountability for actions that threaten public health and the environment. False reporting not only undermines the integrity of the regulatory system but can also lead to untreated pollutants entering waterways, impacting both human and ecological well-being. The Edgewood plant serves a significant portion of Franklin County, and accurate reporting is crucial for maintaining safe water quality.

Hungler was indicted on May 4, 2006, on one count of violating the Clean Water Act (CWA), specifically 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(4), which prohibits knowingly making false statements in reports required by the Act. He subsequently pleaded guilty on July 14, 2006, accepting responsibility for his actions. The prosecution argued that Hungler’s deliberate falsification demonstrated a clear disregard for environmental regulations and public safety.

On November 17, 2006, Hungler received a sentence of $10,000, to be paid jointly and severally with his company, Perfect A Waste Sewage Equipment Company. In addition to the financial penalty, Hungler was placed on 12 months of probation. A specific condition of his probation requires strict adherence to all applicable environmental regulations should he continue to work in the sewage disposal or environmental services industries, highlighting the court’s concern about potential future violations.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Charles G. Hungler, Jr.
Company: Perfect A Waste Sewage Equipment Company
Location: Edgewood Sewage Treatment Plant, Franklin County, Kentucky
Crime: Falsifying Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) submitted to the Kentucky Environment and Public Protection Cabinet.
Statute Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(4) – Clean Water Act (CWA) – False Statements.
Penalty: $10,000 fine (jointly and severally), 12 months probation with a stipulation for compliance with environmental regulations in future employment.
Indictment Date: May 4, 2006
Guilty Plea Date: July 14, 2006
Sentencing Date: November 17, 2006

This case serves as a stark reminder that environmental crimes carry significant consequences, and the EPA remains committed to pursuing individuals and entities who attempt to circumvent environmental regulations for financial gain. GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental crime and report on cases that impact public health and safety.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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