Salt Lake City, UT – Compeq International, Inc., a circuit board manufacturer, has been sentenced following a federal investigation into violations of the Clean Water Act. The case, originating in 1998, revealed a pattern of deliberate actions to circumvent environmental regulations and knowingly discharge excessive levels of copper into the Salt Lake City sewer system.
According to court documents, Compeq began operations in Salt Lake City in 1991, quickly scaling production of printed circuit boards. This rapid growth outpaced the company’s wastewater treatment capabilities. Instead of investing in necessary upgrades, Compeq allegedly directed employees to dilute copper-contaminated wastewater in an attempt to meet the permissible levels outlined in their permit issued by the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities. Investigators found instances where copper concentrations exceeded legal limits by as much as 1,000 times.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiated the investigation after receiving reports of abnormally high copper levels impacting the Salt Lake City Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW). Excessive copper discharge not only threatens the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants but also poses a significant risk to the surrounding environment. Sources within the EPA stated the company’s actions demonstrated a clear disregard for both public health and environmental safety.
Individual Accountability
The investigation extended beyond the corporate entity, leading to criminal charges against two Compeq employees. Rodriguez, a company representative, pled guilty to a violation of 33 U.S.C. 1319 and received 24 months of probation and a $2,500 federal fine. Taylor, another employee, also admitted guilt and was sentenced to 24 months probation and 100 hours of community service. These convictions highlight the agency’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for environmental crimes alongside the companies they represent.
Corporate Penalties and Restitution
On December 4, 1998, Compeq International pled guilty to three counts of violating 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A) – knowingly violating the Clean Water Act. The company received 60 months of probation and a substantial $1 million federal fine. Beyond the financial penalties, Compeq agreed to contribute a total of $350,000 to environmental initiatives, including $150,000 to the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), $150,000 to the Salt Lake City POTW, and $50,000 to the Western States Project.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Compeq International, Inc.
- Crime: Clean Water Act Violations (specifically, knowingly exceeding permit limits for copper discharge)
- Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
- Year: 1999
- Statutes Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A), 33 U.S.C. 1319
- Corporate Penalty: $1 million fine, 60 months probation, $350,000 in contributions to environmental projects
- Individual Penalties: Rodriguez – 24 months probation, $2,500 fine. Taylor – 24 months probation, 100 hours community service.
- Method of Violation: Dilution of wastewater and exceeding permitted copper concentrations.
This case serves as a stark reminder that environmental regulations are not merely guidelines, but legally binding requirements. The EPA continues to prioritize the prosecution of companies and individuals who prioritize profit over the health of our communities and the environment.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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