Jason Leon Harbaugh, Emission Fraud, Alaska 2012

Fairbanks, AK – A former employee of Peger Road Auto, Jason Leon Harbaugh, was sentenced following a joint investigation by the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) – Environmental Crimes Unit and the EPA Criminal Investigation Division (CID) Anchorage office. The case, brought to light by concerns raised by the State of Alaska’s Air Non-Point and Mobile Sources Program, revealed a scheme involving fraudulent emission certificates and the circumvention of the state’s vehicle inspection and maintenance program.

The investigation centered around “clean-piping” – a deceptive practice where a vehicle in good working order is temporarily substituted for another undergoing emissions testing. This allows a failing vehicle to fraudulently pass inspection, circumventing regulations designed to protect air quality. Peger Road Auto, located in Fairbanks, was identified as a key location where this activity allegedly occurred, leading investigators to focus on its employees, including Harbaugh.

According to court documents, Harbaugh was charged on October 31, 2011, with five counts of violating Alaska Statute (AS) 18.66.990(3) and (5), specifically related to automobile emission testing fraud and the improper execution of test procedures. The charges stemmed from evidence suggesting Harbaugh knowingly participated in the substitution scheme, providing fraudulent emission certificates for vehicles that hadn’t legitimately passed inspection.

Harbaugh ultimately pled guilty to all five counts. The sentencing, handed down by the court, included a 24-month probationary period, requiring him to abide by specific conditions and remain law-abiding. In addition to probation, Harbaugh was ordered to perform 40 hours of community service, contributing to the betterment of the Fairbanks area. Financial penalties were also levied, consisting of a $1,000 criminal fine payable to the state, and $1,500 in restitution paid to the victim – intended to cover unnecessary repair costs incurred due to the fraudulent inspection.

The EPA-CID and DEC emphasized the importance of enforcing vehicle emissions standards, not only for environmental protection but also for ensuring fair competition within the automotive repair industry. Fraudulent inspections undermine the integrity of the program and can lead to increased pollution, impacting public health. This case serves as a warning to other businesses and individuals considering similar schemes.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Jason Leon Harbaugh
Location: Peger Road Auto, Fairbanks, Alaska
Crime: Emission testing fraud (“clean-piping”)
Statutes Violated: AS 18.66.990(3) and (5) – automobile emission testing fraud and test procedures.
Penalties: 24 months probation, 40 hours community service, $1,000 fine, $1,500 restitution
Investigating Agencies: Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation – Environmental Crimes Unit & EPA-CID Anchorage

GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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