Clackamas, OR – Douglas Lee Moser was sentenced to probation and ordered to pay over $2,680 in fines and restitution after illegally dumping pesticide waste in Clackamas County in May 2012. The incident, investigated by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office and the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), resulted in a costly cleanup operation and highlighted the dangers of improper hazardous waste disposal.
According to court documents, on May 13, 2012, Moser was observed discharging a significant amount of methyl amine, a hazardous pesticide component, onto the shoulder of 98th Avenue. The substance originated from a 55-gallon drum Moser was transporting. The illegal dumping immediately raised environmental concerns, prompting a swift response from local authorities and the DEQ.
The Oregon DEQ took immediate action to contain and remediate the spill, preventing further contamination of the surrounding area. The cleanup, which involved specialized teams and equipment, ultimately cost $2,110.05. Investigators determined that Moser knowingly and unlawfully deposited the polluting substance, directly violating state environmental regulations.
Legal Ramifications
Moser was formally charged with a single count of violating Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 164.785(1), which specifically addresses the unlawful placement of polluting substances in waters of the state – encompassing not just bodies of water, but also land where the substance could reach waterways. The charge carries potential penalties including fines, restitution for cleanup costs, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the environmental damage and the defendant’s history.
Sentencing and Restitution
On July 20, 2012, Moser appeared before the court and entered a guilty plea. The judge sentenced Moser to 12 months of bench probation, requiring regular check-ins with a probation officer. Beyond probation, Moser was ordered to pay a $100 state fine, full restitution of $2,110.05 to the Oregon DEQ to cover the cleanup expenses, and an additional $470 in court costs. The total financial penalty amounted to $2,680.05.
Ongoing Concerns
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible hazardous waste management. Improper disposal of pesticides and other chemicals can pose significant threats to public health and the environment. The Oregon DEQ continues to prioritize enforcement of environmental regulations and encourages individuals and businesses to utilize proper disposal methods for hazardous materials.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Douglas Lee Moser
- Location: Clackamas, Oregon
- Date of Incident: May 13, 2012
- Substance Dumped: Methyl amine (pesticide waste)
- Statute Violated: ORS 164.785(1) – Placing a polluting substance in water
- Cleanup Cost: $2,110.05
- Sentence: 12 months bench probation, $100 fine, $2,110.05 restitution, $470 court costs
GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases in Oregon and beyond, providing in-depth reporting on those who endanger our communities and ecosystems.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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