Ogden, UT – A portable restroom servicing driver was convicted earlier this year for illegally discharging sewage into a storm drain in Ogden, Utah, according to court records obtained by GrimyTimes. Oscar E. Sanchez-Valdivia, an employee of A Company Portable Restrooms, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge stemming from an incident in late 2016.
The incident came to light on December 30, 2016, when a concerned citizen observed two A Company Portable Restrooms trucks improperly positioned near a storm drain. One truck was reportedly facing the wrong direction on the street, while another was positioned directly over the drain itself. Shortly after, the witness discovered a significant amount of sewage and toilet paper surrounding the storm drain grate. Photographic evidence was captured and immediately reported to Ogden City officials.
Investigators determined that approximately 400-500 gallons of untreated sewage had been discharged into the city’s storm water system. This discharge represents a direct violation of state water quality regulations, potentially impacting local waterways and posing a public health risk. The origin of the illegal discharge was traced back to the operations of A Company Portable Restrooms and specifically, driver Oscar E. Sanchez-Valdivia.
Legal Ramifications
On March 27, 2019, Sanchez-Valdivia was convicted of Attempted Unlawful Discharge of Pollutants, a Class B Misdemeanor under Utah’s Water Quality Act. The conviction carries a potential sentence of up to six months in jail. However, the judge suspended the entire six-month jail term. Sanchez-Valdivia was ordered to pay a criminal fine of $680. While a suspended sentence means no immediate incarceration, the defendant remains subject to the court’s oversight and could face penalties if future violations occur.
Company Response & Ongoing Concerns
A Company Portable Restrooms has not publicly commented on the incident or the conviction of its employee. GrimyTimes reached out for comment but did not receive a response. This case highlights the potential for environmental damage from improper waste disposal practices, even within seemingly routine service industries. Local environmental advocates are calling for stricter oversight of portable restroom servicing companies to prevent future incidents and ensure responsible waste management.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Oscar E. Sanchez-Valdivia
- Location: Ogden, Utah
- Date of Incident: December 30, 2016
- Crime: Attempted Unlawful Discharge of Pollutants – Violate Water Quality Act (Class B Misdemeanor)
- Estimated Discharge: 400-500 gallons of sewage
- Penalty: $680 fine, 6-month suspended sentence
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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