Riverside, CA – Dean Allan Swager was sentenced in November 2002 following a guilty plea to federal charges stemming from the illegal discharge of dairy waste into the Santa Ana River, according to records obtained by GrimyTimes. The incident, occurring in July 2002, highlights ongoing concerns about agricultural runoff and its impact on California’s waterways.
Investigators with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determined that Swager knowingly discharged wastewater from a dairy pond by intentionally creating a breach in the pond’s containment berm. This resulted in a significant flow of polluted water leaving the dairy property and traveling approximately a quarter-mile through a drainage ditch before entering the Santa Ana River. The nature of the discharge, comprised of dairy waste, posed a threat to both aquatic life and potential downstream water users.
The EPA’s criminal investigation uncovered evidence suggesting Swager was aware of the potential environmental damage caused by the uncontrolled discharge. Federal prosecutors argued that Swager’s actions demonstrated a deliberate disregard for environmental regulations designed to protect the Santa Ana River, a vital resource for Southern California. The incident prompted a swift response from federal authorities, leading to Swager’s indictment and subsequent plea.
Swager faced three counts of violating the Clean Water Act (CWA). Specifically, he was charged with violating 33 U.S.C. 1311(a) for exceeding effluent limitations, 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A) for knowingly violating the CWA, and 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)(A) related to unauthorized discharges. The prosecution successfully demonstrated that Swager’s actions constituted a criminal offense under federal law.
Sentencing & Penalties
On November 4, 2002, Swager was sentenced to 24 months of probation by a federal judge. In addition to probation, Swager was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment fee and a $10,000 federal fine. While the financial penalties and probationary period represent accountability for the offense, environmental advocates have long called for stricter penalties for water pollution violations to deter future incidents.
This case underscores the EPA’s commitment to enforcing the Clean Water Act and holding individuals accountable for environmental crimes. The Santa Ana River remains a critical waterway, and ongoing monitoring and enforcement efforts are crucial to ensure its long-term health and sustainability. GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental crime cases across the nation.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Dean Allan Swager
- Location: Santa Ana River, California
- Date of Offense: July 2002
- Crime: Illegal discharge of dairy waste into a waterway
- Statutes Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1311(a), 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A), 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)(A)
- Penalty: 24 months probation, $100 special assessment, $10,000 fine
Emily Carter contributed to this report.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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