EL DORADO, KS – A Kansas plastics recycling company and its owners have been penalized for the unlawful storage of hazardous waste, putting both the environment and public safety at risk. Integrated Plastics Solutions, LLC, of El Dorado, was sentenced this week following a multi-year investigation by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Justice.
According to court documents, Integrated Plastics Solutions knowingly stored hazardous waste – including highly flammable paints and solvents – without the required permits at its facility from 2009 until July 2013. The improper storage created a significant fire and explosion hazard, potentially endangering employees, first responders, and the surrounding community. The company pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful storage of hazardous waste.
The case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Metzger, revealed a pattern of negligence in handling dangerous materials. Investigators discovered the company failed to adhere to proper safety protocols for storing and disposing of the hazardous waste, a clear violation of federal environmental regulations. This isn’t simply an oversight; it’s a deliberate disregard for the law and the wellbeing of the public.
Owner Accountability
Beyond the corporate penalties, the owners of Integrated Plastics Solutions also faced individual consequences. Sean M. Riley was sentenced to 18 months of probation and ordered to pay $39,603 in restitution. His brother, Brian J. Riley, received a three-year probationary sentence and was also ordered to pay $39,603 in restitution. Combined with restitution paid by the company, the total restitution owed is $97,612.
Penalties and Future Compliance
Integrated Plastics Solutions was sentenced to three years of probation, a $10,000 federal fine, a $400 special assessment, and is required to participate in a comprehensive compliance and ethics program. The probation will be monitored to ensure the company implements and maintains adequate procedures for handling hazardous materials moving forward. U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom praised the EPA’s work on the case, highlighting the importance of enforcing environmental laws to protect communities.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Integrated Plastics Solutions, LLC
- Location: El Dorado, Kansas
- Crime: Unlawful storage of hazardous waste
- Years Active: 2009 – 2013
- Statutes Violated: Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, 42 U.S.C. 7413(c)(4), 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A), 18 U.S.C. 2
- Penalties: $10,000 fine, $97,612 restitution, 3 years probation
- Owners Penalized: Sean Riley (18 months probation, $39,603 restitution), Brian Riley (3 years probation, $39,603 restitution)
This case serves as a stark reminder to businesses that environmental regulations are not merely suggestions, but legally binding requirements. Failure to comply can result in significant financial penalties, criminal charges, and lasting damage to a company’s reputation. The EPA continues to investigate and prosecute companies that prioritize profit over public safety and environmental protection.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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