Portland, Maine – Daryl D. Quinn, 54, of Cumberland, Maine, was sentenced in November 2010 following a guilty plea to one count of mail fraud, stemming from a scheme to defraud a Naples, Maine homeowner. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine, revealed a deliberate misrepresentation of water quality test results after the installation of a costly purification system.
Quinn, a salesman for Water Treatment Equipment Incorporated of Yarmouth, Maine, sold and oversaw the installation of a water purification system at a residence in Naples in 2008. The system was specifically intended to remove dangerous levels of uranium from the homeowner’s well water. However, subsequent testing revealed the system had failed to adequately address the contamination.
Instead of informing the customer of the continued presence of unacceptable uranium levels, Quinn knowingly and falsely reported that the water was safe. This deception allowed Water Treatment Equipment Incorporated to avoid potential liability and further financial obligations. The scheme involved the transmission of falsified test results through the U.S. Mail, establishing the federal crime of mail fraud.
Investigation & Prosecution
The EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division played a critical role in uncovering the fraudulent activity. Investigator Kevin Gaul meticulously gathered evidence demonstrating Quinn’s intent to deceive the homeowner. U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Delahanty II highlighted the EPA’s contribution to the successful prosecution. The case underscores the agency’s commitment to protecting public health and ensuring the integrity of environmental services.
Legal Ramifications & Sentencing
Quinn pled guilty on July 13, 2010, to one count of mail fraud in violation of Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, 18 U.S.C. §1341. The statute prohibits the use of the mail to execute a scheme to defraud. On November 16, 2010, he received a sentence of 36 months probation, a federal fine of $3,500, and was ordered to pay $950 in restitution to the victim. This financial penalty aimed to compensate the homeowner for the costs associated with the fraudulent scheme.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Daryl D. Quinn
- Company: Water Treatment Equipment Incorporated
- Location: Naples and Yarmouth, Maine
- Crime: Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. §1341)
- Victim: A Naples, Maine homeowner
- False Claim: Quinn falsely stated uranium levels were acceptable after system installation.
- Sentence: 36 months probation, $3,500 fine, $950 restitution
This case serves as a warning to individuals and companies operating in the water treatment industry. Falsifying environmental test results not only endangers public health but also carries significant legal consequences, including federal criminal charges and financial penalties.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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