Howell Machine, Inc., Violating the Clean Water Act, Idaho 2011

LEWISTON, ID – Howell Machine, Inc., a Lewiston-based metal recycling company, was sentenced in December 2011 for illegally discharging hazardous wastewater containing lead into the local sewer system. The case, investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights the ongoing risk posed by industrial facilities failing to adhere to environmental regulations.

According to court documents, the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division received information in late 2009 regarding potential improper disposal practices at Howell Machine’s facility. The company specialized in rinsing, tumbling, and recycling spent brass cartridges from bullets for resale. This process generated significant rinse wastewater contaminated with hazardous levels of lead – a known neurotoxin and environmental pollutant.

Instead of properly treating or disposing of the wastewater, Howell Machine allegedly discharged it directly into the municipal sewer system *without* obtaining the necessary permits. A subsequent inspection by EPA officials confirmed the presence of suspected hazardous waste in the discharge, constituting a negligent violation of federal environmental laws. This unauthorized discharge risked overburdening the local wastewater treatment plant and potentially contaminating surrounding waterways.

On December 2, 2011, Howell Machine, Inc. was formally charged with one count of violating the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1311). The company swiftly entered a guilty plea, acknowledging their responsibility for the illegal discharge. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for Idaho prosecuted the case, emphasizing the importance of holding businesses accountable for environmental negligence.

Table of Contents

Toggle

Sentencing & Penalties

On December 22, 2011, U.S. Magistrate Judge Candy W. Dale handed down the sentence. Howell Machine, Inc. was placed on two years of probation and ordered to pay a $10,000 federal fine. The penalty reflects the severity of the violation and serves as a deterrent to other industrial facilities considering similar practices. EPA Special Agent in Charge Tyler Amon stated the dumping of toxic waste “puts the entire treatment system at risk for damage and contamination.”

Key Facts

Defendant: Howell Machine, Inc.
Location: Lewiston, Idaho
Crime: Illegal discharge of hazardous wastewater containing lead.
Statute Violated: Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1311)
Penalty: 24 months probation and a $10,000 fine.
Investigation Agency: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division

This case underscores the EPA’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and protecting public health and the environment from the dangers of industrial pollution. The agency continues to investigate potential violations and pursue legal action against those who disregard the law.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

Related Federal Cases