Columbus, OH – Kevin Ellison, manager of Unique Lawn Care, was sentenced in May 2016 following a criminal investigation into the illegal discharge of industrial wastewater containing harmful herbicides into Ohio’s waterways. The case, brought forth by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, highlights the ongoing struggle to protect the state’s natural resources from improper waste disposal practices.
According to court documents, on October 28, 2014, Ellison and Unique Lawn Care – operating under the names TCCC, Inc. d/b/a Unique Lawn Care and TCCC, Inc. d/b/a Unique Lawn Care – intentionally discharged approximately 2400 gallons of wastewater directly into the environment. The discharge originated from a tank within the Unique Lawn Care facility and flowed through a hose onto the parking lot, eventually entering a storm drain and a tributary of Clear Creek.
The Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) swiftly responded, collecting samples that revealed alarmingly high concentrations of the herbicide 2,4D. Analysis showed levels of 109 parts per million (ppm) and 4.94 ppm in the collected samples—far exceeding safe thresholds for aquatic life and potentially posing risks to human health. The wastewater contained a potent mix of pesticides and herbicides used in the company’s lawn care operations.
The investigation determined that the discharge occurred without the necessary permits required for such a release, a clear violation of state environmental regulations. The intentional nature of the discharge, directing the wastewater onto the parking lot and toward the storm drain, raised concerns about deliberate disregard for environmental safeguards. Prosecutors argued that Unique Lawn Care failed to properly contain and dispose of the hazardous waste generated by their business.
Sentencing and Penalties
On February 26, 2016, criminal charges were filed against both Ellison and Unique Lawn Care. After entering a plea, Kevin Ellison was sentenced to 12 months of probation and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine to the State of Ohio. Unique Lawn Care, as a corporate entity, was also penalized, receiving a $5,000 fine. The sentencing reflects the seriousness with which Ohio authorities view environmental crimes and aims to deter future violations.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Kevin Ellison & Unique Lawn Care (TCCC, Inc.)
- Location: Ohio
- Date of Incident: October 28, 2014
- Crime: Illegal discharge of industrial wastewater containing herbicides.
- Pollutant: 2,4D at concentrations of 109 ppm and 4.94 ppm
- Statutes Violated: Ohio State Environmental Regulations (specific statute not cited in provided data)
- Penalties: Kevin Ellison – 12 months probation, $1,000 fine. Unique Lawn Care – $5,000 fine.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting environmental responsibility. GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases in Ohio and beyond, holding polluters accountable and advocating for the protection of our shared natural resources.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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