Eason & Smith Enterprises, Hazardous Waste Crime, OK 1988

Del City, Oklahoma – Eason & Smith Enterprises, Inc. pled guilty to federal charges of illegally transporting and storing hazardous waste in 1988, according to court documents obtained by GrimyTimes. The case, stemming from an investigation into improper waste handling practices, highlights a concerning disregard for environmental regulations and potential public health risks.

The corporation entered into an agreement with officials at Hollman Air Force Base to accept and manage drummed hazardous wastes. However, authorities discovered Eason & Smith Enterprises failed to secure the necessary permits or achieve interim status required by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) before engaging in these activities. This meant the company was operating outside the bounds of legally mandated safety and environmental protocols.

The initial charge, filed on March 17, 1988, alleged that Eason & Smith Enterprises knowingly transported and stored hazardous waste without the required authorization. The company, through its president Carroll Smith, swiftly submitted a Petition to Enter a Plea of Guilty, signaling an acknowledgement of wrongdoing. The investigation reportedly focused on the methods used to handle the waste after it arrived at the company’s facility, with concerns raised about potential leaks and improper containment.

GrimyTimes has learned that the hazardous waste in question originated from Hollman Air Force Base, raising questions about the base’s oversight of its waste disposal contractors. While the Air Force Base itself wasn’t directly charged in this case, the incident underscores the importance of stringent vetting processes for companies handling potentially dangerous materials. Sources familiar with the case suggest the waste included a variety of industrial solvents and potentially other toxic substances.

Table of Contents

Toggle

Legal Ramifications

Eason & Smith Enterprises was sentenced on May 15, 1988, and ordered to pay a $15,000 fine. The conviction stemmed from a violation of 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A), specifically Section 3008(d)(2)(A) of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). This section of RCRA prohibits the transportation, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste without a permit or interim status. The penalty, while significant at the time, may be considered relatively lenient by today’s standards given the potential environmental damage and long-term health consequences associated with improper hazardous waste management.

Key Facts

Defendant: Eason & Smith Enterprises, Inc.
Location: Del City, Oklahoma
Year: 1988
Crime: Illegal transportation and storage of hazardous waste
Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) – RCRA Section 3008(d)(2)(A)
Penalty: $15,000 fine
Waste Source: Hollman Air Force Base
President: Carroll Smith

The Eason & Smith Enterprises case serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for strict adherence to hazardous waste regulations. GrimyTimes will continue to investigate similar cases and hold accountable those who prioritize profit over public safety and environmental responsibility. This is a developing story.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

Related Federal Cases