Mark Mayhue, Pollution, PA 1998

Norristown, PA – A former superintendent of a Pennsylvania wastewater treatment plant has served time for knowingly discharging excessive amounts of untreated sewage into the Schuylkill River. Mark Mayhue, who oversaw operations at the Norristown Wastewater Treatment Plant, pled guilty in 1996 and was sentenced in 1997 for violations of the Clean Water Act (CWA).

According to court documents, between January and March of 1994, Mayhue deliberately failed to remove approximately 150 tons of sewage sludge before the wastewater was released into the Schuylkill River. This deliberate omission resulted in a significant pollution event, impacting the river’s ecosystem and potentially posing health risks to those utilizing the waterway. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) criminal enforcement division investigated the case, uncovering evidence of Mayhue’s intentional disregard for environmental regulations.

The investigation revealed that Mayhue, in his position of authority, was responsible for ensuring proper treatment and disposal of wastewater. Instead, he knowingly bypassed crucial treatment processes, prioritizing operational convenience over environmental compliance. Sources close to the investigation suggest the decision was motivated by cost-cutting measures and a desire to expedite the discharge process, despite clear knowledge of the potential consequences.

On October 31, 1996, Mayhue was formally charged with three counts of violating the Clean Water Act. Two counts stemmed from knowingly violating the CWA – specifically 33 U.S.C. §1319(c)(2)(A) and §1311 – while the third charge involved negligent violations under 33 U.S.C. §1319(c)(1) and §1311. The charges highlighted the severity of his actions, emphasizing the intent to disregard established environmental safeguards.

Less than a month later, on November 25, 1996, Mayhue entered a guilty plea to all three counts. The sentencing, delivered on October 16, 1997, reflected the seriousness of the offense. Mayhue received a nine-month prison sentence, followed by twelve months of supervised release. In addition to incarceration, he was ordered to complete 50 hours of community service and pay a $2,000 fine. The case serves as a stark reminder that individuals entrusted with environmental responsibility will be held accountable for deliberate violations.

Key Facts

Defendant: Mark Mayhue
Location: Norristown Wastewater Treatment Plant, Pennsylvania
Crime: Illegal discharge of sewage sludge into the Schuylkill River
Timeframe: January – March 1994
Statutes Violated: 33 U.S.C. §1319(c)(2)(A), 33 U.S.C. §1311, 33 U.S.C. §1319(c)(1)
Penalties: 9 months incarceration, 12 months supervised release, 50 hours community service, $2,000 fine
Amount of Sludge: Approximately 150 tons

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Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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