Corning, CA – The owner and foreman of Masami Cattle Ranch (MCR) were sentenced in late 2001 following a federal investigation into illegal pollution of California waterways. Masami Ishida, owner of the large cattle operation, and Manuel Noriega, the ranch foreman, knowingly discharged cattle waste and dumped animal carcasses into Elder and Willow Creeks, tributaries that ultimately feed into the Sacramento River.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiated the investigation after evidence surfaced indicating years of unpermitted discharges from the ranch, which housed between 5,000 and 8,000 head of cattle. Much of the beef produced by MCR was destined for export to Japan. Investigators determined that the ranch systematically avoided proper waste management practices, instead opting to allow raw manure and deceased animals to contaminate local creeks.
The deliberate dumping of pollutants posed a significant threat to both aquatic ecosystems and public health. The introduction of bacteria and pathogens from cattle waste can decimate fish populations and other aquatic life. Moreover, the contaminated water presented risks to anyone using the waterways for recreation or relying on them as a source of drinking water. The ranch’s actions were a clear violation of federal environmental regulations designed to protect these vital resources.
The legal proceedings began on May 26, 2000, with an indictment of Ishida on one count of conspiracy, a violation of 18 U.S.C. 371. Simultaneously, MCR itself was indicted on a single count of knowingly violating the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1311), specifically for the illegal discharge of pollutants. Noriega received his indictment on October 1, 2001, also facing a conspiracy charge under 18 U.S.C. 371.
All three parties ultimately pled guilty. On December 10, 2001, Ishida was sentenced to 12 months of incarceration, followed by a 36-month probationary period. He was also ordered to pay a substantial federal fine of $850,100. MCR, as a corporate entity, was also found guilty and assessed the same $850,100 fine. Noriega received a lighter sentence of 24 months probation and a $3,100 federal fine. The case underscores the EPA’s commitment to pursuing criminal enforcement against those who knowingly pollute the nation’s waterways.
Key Facts
- Defendant(s): Masami Ishida, Masami Cattle Ranch, Manuel Noriega
- Location: Corning, California
- Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 371 (Conspiracy), 33 U.S.C. 1311 (Clean Water Act – Illegal Discharge)
- Pollutant: Cattle waste and deceased animal carcasses
- Waterways Affected: Elder Creek, Willow Creek, tributaries of the Sacramento River
- Penalties: Ishida – 12 months incarceration, 36 months probation, $850,100 fine. MCR – $850,100 fine. Noriega – 24 months probation, $3,100 fine.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases and report on efforts to hold polluters accountable.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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