Charleston, WV – A West Virginia man was sentenced to nearly eight years in federal prison last month for illegally manufacturing methamphetamine and improperly disposing of the dangerous chemical waste generated by the process. Greg L. Swiney, of Clendenin, WV, posed a significant public safety risk by dumping highly flammable and toxic substances in and around several communities, including Elkview and Sanderson.
The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and prosecuted by the Department of Justice, revealed Swiney’s operation created substantial fire and explosion hazards. Methamphetamine production generates a complex cocktail of hazardous waste, including solvents like toluene and acetone, which are both ignitable and pose severe health risks upon contact. Authorities believe Swiney’s disregard for proper disposal procedures endangered residents and potentially contaminated local ecosystems.
The timeline of the case began with an indictment on May 5, 2002, charging Swiney with two counts: violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and a count under the Controlled Substances Act. RCRA governs the management of hazardous waste from “cradle to grave,” ensuring its safe handling, storage, and disposal. The indictment specifically cited 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) for the illegal hazardous waste disposal, and 21 U.S.C. 846 relating to the manufacture of a controlled substance.
According to court documents, Swiney pled guilty to both charges on April 25, 2002, foregoing a trial. This admission of guilt likely contributed to the sentencing handed down on September 25, 2002. The judge sentenced Swiney to 97 months of incarceration, followed by a 36-month probationary period. Notably, no financial fine was levied against the defendant.
The EPA’s criminal enforcement program aims to deter illegal environmental activity through robust investigations and prosecution. Cases like Swiney’s highlight the interconnectedness of drug manufacturing and environmental crime. The agency emphasizes that improper disposal of hazardous waste from illicit drug labs isn’t just an environmental issue; it’s a public health and safety crisis.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Greg L. Swiney
- Location: Clendenin, Elkview, and Sanderson, West Virginia
- Year: 2002
- Charges: Violations of the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) – 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) and the Controlled Substances Act – 21 U.S.C. 846
- Sentence: 97 months imprisonment, 36 months probation. No fine.
- Crime: Illegal manufacture of methamphetamine and improper disposal of hazardous waste (toluene, acetone).
GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases and report on efforts to protect communities from hazardous waste and illegal pollution.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
