Goedecke, Inc., Hazardous Waste Transport, IL 2004

Granite City, IL – A St. Louis, Missouri distribution company, Goedecke, Inc., has been sentenced to probation and ordered to pay restitution after illegally transporting and abandoning hazardous waste in Illinois. The case, brought by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlighted a reckless disregard for public safety and environmental regulations.

In October 2003, authorities discovered an abandoned flatbed tractor-trailer at a motel in Granite City. The trailer contained a dangerous assortment of improperly loaded and unsecured hazardous wastes, including corrosive, toxic, and flammable materials. Notably, the shipment included highly dangerous hydrofluoric acid. Crucially, the waste was being transported without any required manifests or shipping documentation – a clear violation of federal law.

A subsequent investigation by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division revealed that Goedecke, Inc., through one of its managers, identified as Averett, was the source of the illegally transported waste. Over a period of time, Averett allegedly provided the hazardous materials to the truck driver, facilitating the unlawful shipment. The motive remains unclear, but investigators suggest a deliberate attempt to avoid the costs and regulations associated with proper hazardous waste disposal.

On October 1, 2003, both Goedecke, Inc. and Averett were charged with one count of violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), specifically 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(5), which prohibits the knowing transport of hazardous waste without a manifest. The lack of a manifest makes tracking the waste impossible, posing significant risks to the environment and public health in the event of an accident or illegal dumping.

Goedecke, Inc. pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to 24 months of probation. The company was also ordered to pay $45,272 in restitution to the U.S. EPA Region 5 to cover the costs of cleanup and investigation, in addition to a $400 special assessment fee. Averett also entered a guilty plea, receiving a 12-month probation sentence, a $100 special assessment, and was jointly liable with Goedecke, Inc. for the $45,272 restitution payment, as well as a $200 federal fine.

This case underscores the EPA’s commitment to vigorously prosecuting those who knowingly violate hazardous waste regulations. Improper handling and transport of such materials can have devastating consequences, and the penalties imposed on Goedecke, Inc. and Averett serve as a warning to others who might attempt to cut corners at the expense of public safety and environmental protection. The abandoned waste presented a serious threat to the community, and the EPA’s swift action prevented a potentially catastrophic incident.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: Goedecke, Inc.
Crime: Illegal Hazardous Waste Transport
Location: Granite City, Illinois
Year: 2004
Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(5) – RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act)
Hazardous Materials: Included corrosive, toxic, flammable wastes and hydrofluoric acid
Penalties: Goedecke, Inc. – 24 months probation, $45,272 restitution, $400 assessment. Averett – 12 months probation, $45,272 restitution (jointly), $200 fine, $100 assessment.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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