Paul Anthony Cagle, Illegal Dumping, Georgia 2009

Douglasville, GA – Paul Anthony (Tony) Cagle has been sentenced to five years probation and a $5,000 criminal fine following a guilty plea to state environmental violations related to the illegal dumping of septic waste. The case, investigated by state authorities, revealed a pattern of unlawful disposal practices originating from what authorities allege was an unlicensed septic service operating out of Cagle’s Douglasville residence.

According to court documents, Cagle repeatedly dumped commercially collected solid and liquid human excrement – along with other septic debris – onto both his own property and a neighboring private residence. The dumping created unsanitary conditions and posed a potential public health risk to the residential area. The investigation began following complaints from local residents regarding foul odors and visible waste deposits.

The situation escalated when investigators instructed Cagle not to disturb any potential evidence at the dumping sites. However, Cagle allegedly violated these instructions by illegally transferring the septic waste into dump trucks, effectively tampering with the investigation and attempting to conceal his actions. This act of obstructing justice further compounded the severity of the charges against him.

Cagle was initially indicted on June 28, 2007, facing three counts of violating state environmental regulations. After pleading guilty, the sentencing phase concluded on April 16, 2009, with the judge imposing the aforementioned fine and a 60-month probationary period. The specific statutes violated were not publicly disclosed beyond the general categorization of “state environmental violations,” but are understood to relate to the proper handling and disposal of sewage and hazardous waste.

While the exact nature of Cagle’s unlicensed septic service remains somewhat unclear, authorities believe he was accepting payment for the collection and removal of septic tank waste without possessing the necessary permits or adhering to established environmental regulations. This practice not only bypassed safety protocols but also unfairly undercut legitimate, licensed septic service providers in the area.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible waste disposal and the consequences of prioritizing profit over public health and environmental safety. Authorities are urging residents to report any suspected illegal dumping activities to ensure the protection of their communities. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) continues to actively investigate and prosecute individuals and businesses that violate state environmental laws.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Paul Anthony (Tony) Cagle
Location: Douglasville, Georgia
Crime: Illegal Dumping of Septic Waste & Evidence Tampering
Year: 2009
Statutes Violated: State Environmental Regulations (specifics undisclosed)
Penalties: $5,000 fine and 5 years probation (60 months)
Details: Cagle dumped raw sewage on his property and a neighbor’s, then illegally moved waste after being told not to.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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