Dover, Ohio – James L. Hidey, 45, was sentenced to 24 months of probation and a $2,000 fine in May 2014 after pleading guilty to illegally discharging toxic well drilling waste into a tributary of the Chagrin River. The case, investigated by a multi-agency task force, highlights the ongoing threat of environmental crimes linked to the booming oil and gas industry in Northeast Ohio.
According to court documents, Hidey, a former employee of Great Plains Exploration, directed the dumping of brine – highly saline water produced during natural gas extraction – into a stormwater sewer system on two occasions in 2008. These discharges occurred following the completion of gas wells in Mayfield Heights and Highland Heights, Ohio. The contaminated stormwater subsequently flowed into Beecher Brook, a small stream that feeds into the larger Chagrin River.
Brine contains high concentrations of salt and other potentially harmful substances. Improper disposal poses significant risks to aquatic life and can contaminate drinking water sources. Authorities say Hidey’s actions demonstrated a reckless disregard for environmental regulations and public safety. The investigation revealed that Hidey knowingly bypassed proper waste disposal procedures to cut costs or expedite operations.
Environmental Task Force Collaboration
The case was a collaborative effort of the Northeast Ohio Environmental Crimes Task Force, comprised of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I), and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA). U.S. Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach emphasized the commitment of federal and state agencies to vigorously pursue those who pollute Ohio’s waterways. Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine echoed this sentiment, stating that protecting the state’s natural resources is a top priority.
Legal Ramifications
Hidey was charged with violating the Clean Water Act, specifically 33 USC 1319(c)(2)(A), which prohibits the discharge of pollutants into navigable waters without a permit. The initial criminal information was filed on October 17, 2013, and Hidey entered a guilty plea on November 20, 2013. The sentence of 24 months probation and a $2,000 fine reflects the seriousness of the offense, though critics argue that penalties for environmental crimes often fail to adequately deter future violations.
Looking Ahead
Randall K. Ashe, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Ohio, stated that the EPA will continue to investigate and prosecute environmental crimes. This case serves as a reminder of the potential consequences for individuals and companies who prioritize profit over environmental responsibility. The GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental enforcement cases across the region.
Key Facts
- Defendant: James L. Hidey, 45, of Dover, Ohio
- Crime: Illegal discharge of well drilling waste (brine)
- Location: Mayfield Heights & Highland Heights, Ohio; Beecher Brook & Chagrin River
- Year: 2008 (discharges), 2014 (sentence)
- Statute Violated: 33 USC 1319(c)(2)(A) – Clean Water Act
- Penalty: 24 months probation & $2,000 fine
- Investigating Agencies: U.S. EPA, Ohio BCI&I, Ohio EPA
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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