Charles Roberts, Unlawful disposal of hazardous waste, Illinois 2007

Valmeyer, IL – Charles Roberts has been sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay $2,234 in restitution following a guilty plea to illegally dumping hazardous waste in 2007. The case, prosecuted under Illinois state law, highlights ongoing concerns regarding improper disposal of automotive fluids and the potential environmental damage caused by such actions.

According to court records, Roberts, formerly associated with Big Jim’s Autorama, unlawfully disposed of between three and four 35-gallon drums, along with a single 55-gallon drum, containing used oil and engine cleaner. The dumping occurred at an undisclosed site within Valmeyer, Illinois, raising immediate concerns from state environmental authorities.

The investigation, led by Illinois environmental regulators, uncovered evidence directly linking Roberts to the illegal dumping. While details of the initial discovery remain scarce, the volume of hazardous materials involved prompted a swift legal response. The dumped substances posed a potential threat to local soil, groundwater, and potentially nearby waterways, necessitating remediation efforts that were factored into the restitution amount.

Roberts entered a guilty plea on November 6, 2007, admitting to violating state environmental regulations governing the handling and disposal of hazardous waste. He was formally charged via Information with one count of the offense. The sentencing, delayed until January 16, 2009, reflects the seriousness with which Illinois authorities treat environmental crimes. The delay between plea and sentencing is not immediately clear from available records.

Key Facts

Defendant: Charles Roberts
Crime: Unlawful disposal of hazardous waste (used oil & engine cleaner)
Location: Valmeyer, Illinois
Statutes Violated: Illinois state environmental regulations regarding hazardous waste
Penalty: 12 months probation and $2,234 restitution to the State of Illinois
Waste Origin: Big Jim’s Autorama
Waste Volume: 3-4 x 35-gallon drums & 1 x 55-gallon drum

GrimyTimes reached out to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for comment on the case and to ascertain whether any further remediation work was required at the dumping site. A spokesperson confirmed the successful prosecution and emphasized the agency’s commitment to pursuing individuals and businesses who attempt to circumvent environmental regulations. This case serves as a stark reminder that improper hazardous waste disposal carries significant legal and financial consequences.

The incident raises broader questions about compliance within the automotive repair industry and the proper procedures for disposing of used oil and cleaning solvents. While Roberts is now facing the consequences of his actions, further investigation may be needed to determine if this was an isolated incident or part of a larger pattern of environmental negligence at Big Jim’s Autorama.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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