Portland, OR – Fujitrans Corporation, operator of the vehicle transport vessel Motor Vessel Cygnus, has been penalized over $2.3 million for intentionally polluting the ocean with oily waste and attempting to cover up the illegal discharges. The case, originating from a whistleblower report in 2002, culminated in a guilty plea from the corporation in February 2005 and a substantial financial and operational restructuring order.
The investigation began after authorities received information alleging that crew members aboard the Cygnus were utilizing a bypass pipe to illegally dump oily waste directly into the ocean, circumventing established pollution control measures. Further investigation revealed that the ship’s Oil Record Book – a legally mandated log detailing the disposal of all oil and oily wastes – had been deliberately falsified to conceal the illicit discharges. Such actions pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems and violate federal law.
The initial phase of the investigation led to the indictment of two crew members, Pyeong Gab Jeong and Duk Jo Jeong, in May 2002. Both were charged with making false statements in violation of 18 U.S.C. 1001. Jeong pled guilty and was sentenced in July 2002 to three months of incarceration followed by deportation from the United States. Duk Jo Jeong received a 24-month probationary sentence. Jeong was deported in October 2002 following his release.
However, prosecutors didn’t stop with the crew. Focus shifted to the corporate entity, Fujitrans Corporation, which was formally charged in February 2005 with violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships. The corporation subsequently pled guilty to four felony counts. The sentencing, handed down the same month, included a three-year probationary period, a mandatory implementation of a comprehensive environmental compliance program designed to prevent future violations, and hefty financial penalties totaling $1,340,000. These fines were split between Oregon ($1,005,000) and California ($335,000), reflecting the scope of the illegal activity.
Beyond the fines, Fujitrans was ordered to contribute $495,000 to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and $165,000 to the Channel Islands National Park, earmarked for environmental restoration and conservation efforts. Notably, the whistleblower who initiated the investigation was awarded a portion of the collected fines, incentivizing future reporting of environmental crimes. The case underscores the EPA’s commitment to pursuing both individuals and corporations responsible for intentional pollution and environmental misconduct.
The penalties levied against Fujitrans serve as a stark warning to the maritime industry. The intentional discharge of oil into navigable waters is a serious federal offense with severe consequences, including criminal prosecution, substantial financial penalties, and damage to a company’s reputation. The EPA continues to aggressively investigate and prosecute such violations to protect our oceans and marine life.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Fujitrans Corporation
- Crime: Oil Pollution / Falsifying Records
- State: Oregon (and California involvement)
- Year: 2005
- Laws Violated: 18 U.S.C. 1001, Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships
- Penalties: $1,340,000 in fines ($1,005,000 OR, $335,000 CA), $660,000 in environmental contributions, 3 years probation, environmental compliance program.
- Crew Member Penalties: Pyeong Gab Jeong – 3 months incarceration & deportation. Duk Jo Jeong – 24 months probation.
- Whistleblower Reward: A portion of the fines paid by Fujitrans.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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