D & G Brice Contractors, Pollution, MD 2003

Salisbury, MD – D & G Brice Contractors, Inc. has been sentenced following a guilty plea to charges of illegal pollutant discharge and operating without required permits, according to Maryland environmental authorities. The case, brought forth by state regulators, highlights ongoing concerns regarding industrial compliance and the protection of Maryland’s waterways.

The investigation revealed a pattern of repeated discharges of an alkaline concrete slurry from the company’s concrete facility directly into state waters. These discharges, occurring over an unspecified period, constituted a clear violation of state environmental regulations designed to safeguard water quality and aquatic ecosystems. Authorities were alerted to the issue and initiated an investigation, leading to the formal charges against D & G Brice.

On August 22, 2002, D & G Brice Contractors was formally charged with six counts of violating Maryland’s environmental laws. The charges specifically related to the unauthorized discharge of pollutants and the operation of an industrial facility without the necessary discharge permits. These permits are crucial for monitoring and regulating the release of potentially harmful substances into the environment.

Facing mounting evidence, D & G Brice Contractors entered a guilty plea on November 1, 2002. The plea agreement was accepted by the court, resulting in a sentencing hearing held on the same day. The judge imposed an 18-month probationary period on the company, requiring adherence to strict environmental compliance measures. Furthermore, D & G Brice was ordered to pay a substantial fine of $150,000 to the state of Maryland, intended to cover remediation costs and serve as a deterrent against future violations.

While the specific statutes violated have not been publicly detailed beyond being “state environmental regulations”, the case underscores the importance of consistent monitoring and enforcement of environmental protection laws. Industry experts suggest that alkaline concrete slurry can significantly alter the pH levels of waterways, harming aquatic life and potentially contaminating drinking water sources. The lack of required discharge permits also prevented proper oversight of the company’s waste management practices.

The outcome of this case sends a clear message that environmental violations will not be tolerated in Maryland. State environmental agencies continue to prioritize the enforcement of regulations aimed at preserving the state’s natural resources and ensuring the health and safety of its citizens. GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments or appeals.

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Key Facts

Defendant: D & G Brice Contractors, Inc.
Location: Maryland
Year: 2003
Crime: Illegal discharge of alkaline concrete slurry and operation without required discharge permits.
Charges: 6 counts of violating state environmental regulations
Plea: Guilty
Sentence: 18 months probation and a $150,000 state fine

Note: Specific details of the violated statutes are unavailable at this time.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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