St. Stephen, SC – In a case highlighting the deadly consequences of illegal pesticide handling, Damon Lamonte Kelly, of St. Stephen, South Carolina, pleaded guilty in May 2015 to charges stemming from the theft and distribution of a highly toxic herbicide. The incident ultimately led to the death of one individual and underscored the dangers of mislabeled and improperly applied agricultural chemicals.
According to the South Carolina Department of Pesticide Regulation, Kelly stole Gramoxone, a restricted-use herbicide containing the extremely poisonous active ingredient paraquat, around June 3, 2014. The stolen herbicide was then allegedly provided to Kenneth Michael Beauford, who repackaged the dangerous substance into plastic soft drink bottles labeled “Pepsi.” These bottles were subsequently sold to individuals in St. Stephen.
Tragically, one buyer, believing the liquid to be a refreshing beverage, consumed some of the herbicide and died on June 15, 2014. The investigation, led by the South Carolina Department of Pesticide Regulation, quickly identified Kelly and Beauford as the individuals responsible for the theft and subsequent deadly distribution. The case demonstrates a blatant disregard for public safety and a severe violation of state pesticide regulations.
Legal Ramifications & Sentencing
Kelly was charged with one count of petty larceny (value less than $2,000) and three counts of violating the South Carolina Pesticide Control Act. He ultimately pleaded guilty and was ordered to pay a $1,288 state fine and $500 in restitution. Beauford faced more severe charges, including involuntary manslaughter, receiving stolen goods, and making false statements. In January 2016, he pleaded guilty to two counts of violating the state’s FIFRA laws, one count of receiving stolen goods, and one count of making false statements. A Berkeley County judge sentenced Beauford to a total of 67 days incarceration, along with a $535.60 fine.
The Dangers of Paraquat
Paraquat, the active ingredient in Gramoxone, is a non-selective contact herbicide known for its rapid and non-specific action. While effective in controlling weeds, it is incredibly toxic to humans and animals. Even small amounts ingested can cause severe internal damage, leading to organ failure and, as tragically demonstrated in this case, death. The intentional or accidental mislabeling of such a dangerous substance as a consumable product is particularly egregious.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Damon Lamonte Kelly
- Location: St. Stephen, South Carolina
- Year: 2016 (charges originated in 2015)
- Crime: Pesticide Theft, Illegal Distribution, Resulting in Death
- Statutes Violated: South Carolina Pesticide Control Act, Petty Larceny
- Penalties: $1,288 fine, $500 restitution for Kelly; 67 days incarceration, $535.60 fine for Beauford
- Victim: One individual died after ingesting the mislabeled herbicide.
- Pesticide Involved: Gramoxone (containing Paraquat)
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper pesticide handling, storage, and labeling. The South Carolina Department of Pesticide Regulation continues to emphasize the need for certified applicators and strict adherence to all state and federal regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
Related Federal Cases
- Damon Bellamy, U.S. Tax Theft, FL 2024 · Florida
- Brian Morin, Theft of Government Funds, Columbia SC, 2023 · South Carolina
- Makaeia Demps Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft, Tampa FL,… · Florida
- Laura Butler Admits to Tax Fraud and Identity Theft, Jacksonville F… · Florida
- Jefferson Kincade, Tax Refund Theft, Palestine TX, 2015 · Alabama
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
White Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar Crime