Fort Pierce, FL – Edward E. Whitford, the former owner and operator of A&E Custom, an electroplating business in Fort Pierce, Florida, has been sentenced for obstructing a federal environmental cleanup. The case, stemming from the abandoned facility discovered in 1997, highlights the potential for criminal charges when individuals impede investigations into hazardous waste sites.
A&E Custom specialized in chrome plating motorcycle parts. The business ceased operations around July 1997, leaving behind a significant environmental hazard. Authorities responding to a reported burglary discovered hundreds of vats and drums containing potentially dangerous chemicals both inside and outside the facility. The subsequent cleanup operation was complicated by what investigators allege was deliberately misleading information provided by Whitford.
According to court documents, Whitford knowingly provided false statements that hindered the proper assessment and remediation of the site. The EPA initiated a comprehensive cleanup, but Whitford’s actions reportedly slowed the process and potentially increased the cost and complexity of the operation. Investigators believe Whitford attempted to downplay the extent and nature of the chemical storage, obstructing a thorough investigation into the environmental damage.
Legal Ramifications
Whitford was formally charged on March 12, 2003, with one count of obstruction of proceedings, a violation of Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, Section 1505. He subsequently pled guilty on May 12, 2003, and the case was transferred to the Eastern District of North Carolina under a Rule 20 motion for plea and sentencing. The transfer often occurs when a defendant wishes to plead guilty in a different jurisdiction than where the crime took place.
Sentencing and Penalties
On August 19, 2003, Whitford received a 36-month probationary sentence. In addition to probation, the court mandated Whitford complete a training program focused on the proper handling of hazardous wastes and/or substances. He was also ordered to pay a $5,000 federal fine and a $100 special assessment, bringing the total financial penalty to $5,100. The violation of 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4), relating to obstruction of environmental investigations, carries significant penalties intended to deter interference with environmental protection efforts.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Edward E. Whitford
- Business: A&E Custom (electroplating)
- Location: Fort Pierce, Florida
- Crime: Obstruction of proceedings
- Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 1505, 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4)
- Sentence: 36 months probation, hazardous waste training, $5,000 fine + $100 assessment
- Business Closure: Approximately July 1997
This case serves as a reminder that environmental crimes extend beyond the illegal dumping or mishandling of hazardous materials. Obstructing investigations into these matters is a serious offense with potentially severe consequences, as demonstrated by Whitford’s conviction and sentencing.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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