Springfield, IL – A former wastewater treatment operator has completed his sentence for illegally storing hazardous waste at his private residence, according to Illinois Environmental Protection Agency records obtained by GrimyTimes. Harlee Steward, previously employed by an area electroplating facility, was found to be in possession of a substantial quantity of potentially dangerous chemicals, raising concerns about public health and environmental safety.
The investigation began after authorities discovered fifteen 55-gallon drums on Steward’s property. Initial testing revealed the contents of the drums had a highly acidic pH of approximately 3 – indicating a corrosive substance. Further analysis confirmed the presence of chromium within some of the barrels, a chemical commonly used in the metal plating process and known for its toxicity.
The Illinois State Attorney’s office charged Steward on May 11, 2005, with two counts of violating state environmental regulations, specifically 415ILCS5/44(F). This statute addresses the improper storage and handling of hazardous waste, designed to prevent contamination of soil and water resources. Investigators believe the drums contained waste materials improperly removed from Steward’s employer, though the exact origin and composition of all substances remain unconfirmed.
Prosecutors argued that Steward knowingly violated environmental regulations by failing to properly dispose of the hazardous waste and instead storing it in a manner that posed a significant risk to the surrounding community. The storage location lacked appropriate containment measures, increasing the potential for leaks and spills. The decision to store the barrels at his residence, rather than a permitted facility, was a key factor in the prosecution’s case.
On October 12, 2005, Steward entered a guilty plea to the charges. He was sentenced to 18 months of probation and ordered to complete 180 hours of community service. Notably, no financial fine was imposed. Environmental advocacy groups have expressed disappointment at the lack of a monetary penalty, arguing that it does not adequately reflect the seriousness of the offense or deter future violations.
The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by environmental regulators in monitoring and enforcing hazardous waste laws. While Steward has completed his sentence, the long-term environmental impact of the improperly stored chemicals remains a concern. The IEPA has not released information regarding any remediation efforts undertaken at Steward’s former property.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Harlee Steward
- Location: Illinois
- Year: 2006 (charges filed 2005)
- Crime: Illegal Storage of Hazardous Waste
- Substances: Unknown substances with a pH of 3, containing chromium
- Statute Violated: 415ILCS5/44(F)
- Penalty: 18 months probation, 180 hours community service, no fine
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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