George Henry Garson, Water Pollution, PA 1985

Philadelphia, PA – Former Barrett Chemical Company president, George Henry Garson, faced federal charges and ultimately a guilty plea in 1985 for illegally discharging hazardous waste into a publicly owned treatment works (POTW), creating a dangerous situation for both the facility and the surrounding community. The case, brought forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights the serious consequences of neglecting environmental regulations and prioritizing profit over public safety.

According to court documents filed on March 1, 1985, Garson was accused of knowingly and negligently allowing waste solvents to enter the POTW. These solvents, used in Barrett Chemical’s operations, exceeded permissible pretreatment standards established under the Clean Water Act. The discharge wasn’t simply a regulatory oversight; investigators determined the accumulation of these solvents presented a significant fire and explosion hazard within the treatment plant itself. This posed a direct threat to the employees of the POTW and potentially to nearby residents.

The EPA’s investigation revealed a pattern of disregard for established environmental protocols at Barrett Chemical under Garson’s leadership. While details of the company’s internal procedures remain largely sealed, sources indicate a systemic failure to properly manage and dispose of hazardous waste, opting instead for the cheaper, though illegal, method of discharging it into the sewer system. This practice not only jeopardized the POTW’s operational integrity but also potentially contaminated the water supply.

After initially pleading not guilty, Garson reversed course and entered a guilty plea on May 1, 1985. The decision likely came after facing mounting evidence compiled by the EPA and the potential for a harsher sentence had the case proceeded to trial. The legal proceedings focused on demonstrating Garson’s willful and negligent actions as head of Barrett Chemical, establishing his direct responsibility for the illegal discharges.

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Penalties and Aftermath

On October 1, 1985, Garson received a sentence of 36 months probation. As part of the probationary terms, he was mandated to complete two hours of community service each week for the first year, and was ordered to pay a $2,500 fine. While seemingly lenient by today’s standards, the sentence reflected the penalties available under the Clean Water Act at the time. Critics, however, argue the punishment was insufficient given the potential for catastrophic consequences stemming from Garson’s actions.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent environmental enforcement and corporate accountability. While Barrett Chemical Company’s current status is unclear, the Garson case remains a notable example of how individuals can be held responsible for environmental crimes that endanger public health and safety. The EPA continues to prioritize enforcement of the Clean Water Act, pursuing legal action against those who violate its provisions.

Key Facts

Defendant: George Henry Garson
State: Pennsylvania
Year: 1985
Crime: Illegal discharge of hazardous waste solvents into a POTW, creating a fire/explosion hazard.
Statutes Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1317(d) and 33 U.S.C. 1346 (Clean Water Act, Secs. 307 and 309(c)(1))
Penalty: 36 months probation, 2 hours/week community service for first 12 months, $2,500 fine.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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