Toledo, OH – Glenn A. Metts, former owner of Surface Technologies, avoided significant jail time but faced financial penalties and community service after pleading guilty to multiple environmental violations in 2005. The case, brought to light by an investigation following the bankruptcy of Surface Technologies, revealed a deliberate attempt to conceal hazardous waste and illegally operate a plating line under a false guise.
Following the closure of Surface Technologies, authorities discovered a substantial cache of improperly discarded industrial waste at the facility – nineteen “super sacks” of zinc sludge, two “super sacks” of nickel sludge, and over one hundred drums containing various wastes and chemicals. The abandoned materials posed a potential threat to both public health and the environment, triggering a full investigation by state environmental regulators.
Metts initially claimed he had sold an electrolysis nickel (EN) plating line, a key component of his operation, to another entity. However, investigators quickly determined this to be false. Evidence showed Metts had simply relocated the line to a new company, L&L Plating, and subsequently rebranded it as M&L Plating. This deceptive maneuver was undertaken to continue operations while evading environmental regulations and potentially creditors.
The scheme unraveled further when sample results from M&L Plating in January 2005 revealed violations of their environmental permit. Specifically, testing indicated the facility was exceeding permitted levels for both pH and nickel discharge, demonstrating ongoing pollution despite the attempted relocation and rebranding. The Ohio Attorney General’s office spearheaded the prosecution, alleging Metts knowingly and illegally disposed of hazardous waste and operated an industrial process in violation of state law.
Legal Ramifications
On April 13, 2005, Metts and Surface Technologies were formally charged with violating Ohio Revised Code (ORC) sections 2909.06, 3724.02(11)(99), and 3734.02(11)(99). Metts ultimately pleaded guilty to three counts, while Surface Technologies admitted guilt to one count. The sentencing, handed down on November 8, 2005, saw Metts receive a six-month suspended jail sentence, twelve months of probation, a requirement to complete 100 hours of community service, and a $1,000 state fine. Furthermore, he was ordered to pay restitution totaling $12,500, with $6,000 directed to the Ohio Attorney General’s office. Surface Technologies was fined $10,000 by the state.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Glenn A. Metts, Surface Technologies
- Location: Toledo, Ohio
- Violations: Illegal disposal of hazardous waste (zinc and nickel sludge), operating an industrial process in violation of permit, fraudulent misrepresentation.
- Statutes Violated: ORC 2909.06, ORC 3724.02(11)(99), ORC 3734.02(11)(99)
- Penalties: Metts – 6 months suspended jail time, 12 months probation, 100 hours community service, $1,000 fine, $12,500 restitution. Surface Technologies – $10,000 fine.
- Timeline: Discovery of waste in 2004, charges filed April 2005, guilty pleas October 2005, sentencing November 2005.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences facing individuals and companies who prioritize profit over environmental responsibility. While Metts avoided prison, the financial penalties and community service represent a measure of accountability for his actions, and underscore the state’s commitment to protecting Ohio’s environment.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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