Gregory Kopke, Illegal Dumping, MI 2000

Macomb County, MI – Gregory Kopke was sentenced in September 2000 following a federal investigation into the illegal dumping of hazardous waste in multiple rural locations, including one site dangerously close to an elementary school. The case, brought by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), exposed a pattern of reckless endangerment and disregard for environmental regulations.

According to court documents, Kopke, along with co-defendants Smith and Masinick, transported significant quantities of paint and solvent waste originating from a painting company. Instead of disposing of the materials legally, they abandoned them at four separate sites within Macomb County. The waste was not only ignitable but also contained a cocktail of dangerous chemicals including xylene, ethyl benzene, toluene, and lead. Exposure to benzene is a known carcinogen, while lead contamination can cause severe neurological and skeletal disorders, posing a significant risk to public health, particularly to children.

The investigation, which began in early 1999, revealed a deliberate scheme to avoid the costs and responsibilities associated with proper hazardous waste disposal. Kopke was initially indicted on September 8, 1999, facing charges of knowingly transporting hazardous waste without a manifest – a critical tracking requirement under federal law – and conspiracy to violate federal regulations. A separate individual involved in the scheme received a pre-trial diversion, requiring 20 hours of community service.

The legal fallout unfolded over the course of a year. Smith pled guilty in March 1999 and received a 20-month prison sentence, 24 months of probation, and was ordered to pay $44,007 in restitution to the EPA. Masinick followed suit, pleading guilty in March 2000 and receiving a 60-month probation period, 100 hours of community service, a $100 assessment fee, and the same $44,007 restitution order. Kopke ultimately entered a guilty plea in April 2000 and was sentenced to 24 months of incarceration, followed by 12 months of probation, a $100 assessment, and the substantial restitution payment.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: Gregory Kopke
Location: Macomb County, Michigan
Waste Type: Ignitable paint and solvent waste containing xylene, ethyl benzene, toluene, and lead.
Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 371 (Conspiracy), 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(5) (Knowingly transporting hazardous waste without a manifest), 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(1) (Knowingly violating RCRA), 42 U.S.C. 6928(e) (Related RCRA violations).
Penalties: Kopke received a 24-month prison sentence, 12 months probation, $100 assessment, and $44,007 in restitution.
Public Risk: One of the dumping sites was located near an elementary school, posing a direct threat to children.

The EPA’s successful prosecution of Kopke and his accomplices underscores the agency’s commitment to enforcing the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and protecting communities from the dangers of illegal hazardous waste dumping. The case serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences faced by those who prioritize profit over public safety and environmental responsibility. The significant restitution ordered reflects the substantial cost of environmental remediation and the damage inflicted by the defendants’ actions.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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