Catskill, NY – A former water quality tester has been sentenced for falsifying data related to the Catskill Lower Effluent Chamber (CATLEFF), a critical component of New York City’s water supply system. Nicholas Miritello admitted to submitting fraudulent reports to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), claiming to have performed required turbidity tests when, in fact, he had not.
The scheme, uncovered through a review of video surveillance footage, revealed Miritello failed to conduct the mandated six turbidity tests per day at the CATLEFF facility. Turbidity, a measure of water clarity, is a key indicator of potential contamination and a crucial element in ensuring safe drinking water for millions of New Yorkers. Despite neglecting his duties, Miritello knowingly submitted falsified records to the EPA, violating the Safe Drinking Water Act and federal criminal statutes.
The EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division initiated the investigation following discrepancies identified during routine audits. The video evidence clearly demonstrated Miritello’s failure to perform the required testing. Investigators determined that the submitted documentation was deliberately fabricated to mislead regulators and conceal the lack of compliance. This raised serious concerns about the integrity of the water quality monitoring process and potential risks to public health.
On February 7, 2007, Miritello was indicted on one count of making false statements, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001. This federal statute prohibits knowingly and willfully making false or fraudulent statements to the federal government. He subsequently pled guilty to the charge, admitting to intentionally falsifying the water testing reports.
On June 12, 2008, Miritello received a sentence of 24 months of probation and was ordered to pay a $100 special assessment fee. While the sentence may appear lenient, EPA officials emphasize that the case serves as a warning to others responsible for maintaining public health and safety. The agency continues to prioritize the prosecution of individuals who attempt to circumvent environmental regulations and endanger communities.
The case highlights the importance of rigorous oversight and independent verification of data submitted to regulatory agencies. The falsification of water quality data not only constitutes a criminal offense but also undermines public trust in the safety of the nation’s drinking water supply. The EPA is committed to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of environmental monitoring programs to protect human health and the environment.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Nicholas Miritello
- Location: Catskill Lower Effluent Chamber (CATLEFF), New York
- Crime: Fraudulent reporting of water quality data
- Statutes Violated: Safe Drinking Water Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1001 (making false statements)
- Sentence: 24 months probation, $100 special assessment fee
- Investigation: Conducted by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
Related Federal Cases
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
White Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar Crime