Glenn Shortt, Air Quality Crime, CA 1999

Los Angeles, CA – In a case highlighting the dangers of unregulated refrigerant substitutes, Glenn Shortt, along with business associates, faced federal charges for knowingly distributing a highly flammable substance as a replacement for CFC-12 in vehicle air-conditioning systems. The scheme, uncovered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), posed a significant safety risk to drivers and violated federal clean air regulations.

According to court documents, Shortt, and his partner Henkel, co-owners of NBM Distribution, along with Randy Christensen, operator of C&C Distribution, illegally installed “Hc-12a” – a hydrocarbon blend – into automotive air conditioning units. While marketed as an alternative to the ozone-depleting CFC-12, Hc-12a is specifically designed for *industrial* applications and carries a substantial risk of fire when used in vehicle systems. The EPA determined the substance was an unacceptable and dangerous substitute, potentially leading to vehicle fires and endangering public safety.

The investigation began in early 1998, culminating in an indictment against Shortt and Henkel on January 13th, 1998. They were charged with violating Section 7413(c)(1) of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1)), which specifically prohibits knowingly violating regulations established under the Act. Christensen was similarly charged on June 1st, 1998. The defendants initially pleaded not guilty, but as the trial date approached on August 21st, 1998, all three men entered guilty pleas.

Randy Christensen was the first to be sentenced, receiving 36 months of probation and a mandate to complete 100 hours of community service on October 8th, 1998. Shortt and Henkel followed shortly after, on October 28th, 1998, each receiving 36 months probation with no financial fines levied against them. Sources close to the investigation suggest the relatively lenient sentencing was partially due to the defendants’ cooperation with authorities after entering their guilty pleas, providing details about the scope of the distribution network.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of adhering to environmental regulations, particularly concerning substances with potential safety hazards. The EPA continues to actively investigate and prosecute individuals and companies who attempt to circumvent these regulations, ensuring the protection of both the environment and public health. The use of unapproved refrigerants not only poses a fire risk but can also contribute to air pollution and damage to vehicle components.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant(s): Glenn Shortt, Henkel, Randy Christensen
Companies Involved: NBM Distribution, C&C Distribution
Crime: Illegal distribution of flammable refrigerant (Hc-12a) as a replacement for CFC-12 in vehicle air-conditioning systems.
Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(1) – Clean Air Act, knowingly violates regulations.
Penalties: 36 months probation for all three defendants; Christensen also ordered to perform 100 hours of community service.
Location: California
Year: 1999 (charges filed in 1998)

GrimyTimes will continue to follow this and other environmental crime cases as they develop.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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