John W. Shelton, Water Sample Tampering, West Virginia 2014

Convicted Lab Manager in Water Sample Tampering Case in WV

Beckley, W.Va. - A lab manager is facing up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine after pleading guilty to conspiring to violate the Clean Water Act in a high-profile case in West Virginia.

John W. Shelton, a 47-year-old lab manager at Appalachian Laboratories in Daniels, West Virginia, pleaded guilty to conspiring to tamper with water samples from coal mining operations.

Shelton, who is scheduled to be sentenced on February 26, 2015, admitted to diluting water samples by adding distilled water and substituting them with samples from a designated 'honeyhole' that always met permissible limits.

As a result of Shelton's actions, excessive pollutants were discharged from mining operations into adjacent creeks and rivers, compromising the environment and public health.

The investigation into the case was conducted jointly by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Environmental Protection Agency's Criminal Investigation Division.

Shelton's actions were a clear violation of the Clean Water Act and demonstrate a blatant disregard for the environment and public health.

The conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions and the consequences of environmental crimes.

Defendant:

John W. Shelton

Criminal Charges:

Conspiring to violate the Clean Water Act

City and State:

Beckley, West Virginia

Exact Date:

February 26, 2015 (sentencing date)

Sentence or Outcome:

Up to five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdwv/pr/lab-manager-pleads-guilty-tampering-water-samples