David Cohen, Hazardous Waste Crime, MD 1990

Baltimore, MD – Former chemist David Cohen was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison earlier this year for his role in the illegal storage and disposal of hazardous waste at Capital Assay Laboratories, Ltd. in Baltimore. The case, brought by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights the serious consequences for knowingly endangering public health and the environment through improper handling of toxic materials.

Cohen, who previously owned and operated Capital Assay Laboratories, pled guilty in December 1989 to one count of violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The charges stemmed from the discovery of improperly stored and disposed of hazardous waste, including highly toxic substances like mercury, lead, cadmium, and mixtures of hydrochloric acid and cyanide. Investigators found evidence suggesting a deliberate disregard for environmental regulations and worker safety.

The investigation began in late 1989, leading to charges against both Cohen and John Meighan, who had subsequently taken ownership of the laboratory. According to court documents, the hazardous waste was stored and disposed of in a manner that posed a significant threat to the surrounding community and the environment. The EPA’s criminal enforcement division worked in conjunction with the Department of Justice to build the case and secure the guilty pleas.

While Meighan received a slightly longer sentence of 36 months incarceration, both men were also ordered to pay a $50 assessment to the Crime Victim’s Fund. The relatively lenient financial penalty, however, pales in comparison to the potential environmental remediation costs and long-term health impacts associated with the improper disposal of such dangerous materials. Sources close to the investigation suggest the EPA is continuing to monitor the site for residual contamination.

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Legal Ramifications

Cohen and Meighan were convicted under 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A), a section of RCRA that specifically addresses the knowing and willful illegal storage and disposal of hazardous waste. This statute carries significant penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. The EPA routinely pursues criminal charges against individuals and companies who violate RCRA, sending a clear message that environmental crimes will not be tolerated.

Key Facts

Defendant: David Cohen
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Year: 1990
Crime: Illegal storage and disposal of hazardous waste (mercury, lead, cadmium, cyanide mixtures)
Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) – Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
Sentence: 33 months incarceration, $50 assessment to Crime Victim’s Fund
Co-Defendant: John Meighan (36 months incarceration, $50 assessment)

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by hazardous waste and the importance of strict adherence to environmental regulations. The GrimyTimes will continue to follow this story and report on any further developments regarding site remediation and potential long-term health consequences for the Baltimore community.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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