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Kelly Plating Dumps Toxic Sludge Into Lake Erie System
CLEVELAND, OH – Kelly Plating Company, a Cleveland-based metal finishing operation, has confessed to deliberately polluting the city’s sewer system with dangerous levels of heavy metals, ultimately poisoning Lake Erie. The company pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to violate the Clean Water Act and one count of violating an approved pretreatment program, according to Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.
Court documents reveal a callous disregard for environmental regulations. Between March and May of 2012, a Kelly Plating employee systematically bypassed the company’s own pollution control equipment, opting to discharge partially treated wastewater and sludge directly into the sewer lines. This wasn’t an accident; it was a calculated move to cut corners, resulting in discharges packed with high concentrations of chrome and zinc – toxins lethal to aquatic life and potentially dangerous to human health. The illegal dumping occurred at least 14 times.
The consequences of Kelly Plating’s actions extend beyond simple fines. The sewer system isn’t designed to handle such concentrated toxins. While the wastewater undergoes treatment, residual pollutants inevitably make their way into Lake Erie, contributing to the ongoing ecological damage plaguing the Great Lakes. This isn’t just about breaking a law; it’s about jeopardizing a vital natural resource and the health of the surrounding communities.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, Kelly Plating will recommend a $50,000 fine to the court. But they aren’t just writing a check to wash their hands clean. They’ve also agreed to a $25,000 community service payment, earmarked for a charitable organization dedicated to improving water quality in Northeast Ohio. The specific organization will be presented to the court prior to sentencing, offering a small measure of restitution for the damage caused.
Sentencing is scheduled for December 11th. However, the buck doesn’t stop with the company. Criminal charges remain pending against the Kelly Plating employee directly responsible for the illegal discharges, who was indicted earlier this year. Authorities have yet to release the employee’s name.
The investigation, a collaborative effort between the Ohio EPA, U.S. EPA, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, highlights the importance of vigilance in protecting our waterways. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Beeson is prosecuting the case, ensuring that those who prioritize profit over environmental responsibility face the full weight of the law. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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