Hickory, NC – Paul E. Richard was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $50 in court costs after pleading guilty to illegally dumping hazardous waste in 1996. The case, originating from an investigation into the operations of Cranford Woodcarving, Inc., reveals a deliberate scheme to defraud both environmental regulations and the company itself.
According to court documents, Richard was hired by Cranford Woodcarving, a furniture repair business in Hickory, North Carolina, to assist with plant reconstruction and wood drying processes. Part of his duties included the proper disposal of 18 drums – each containing 55 gallons – of hazardous waste accumulated at the facility. Instead of adhering to environmental protocols, Richard accepted funds earmarked for legitimate disposal and instead illegally dumped and buried the drums on the Cranford Woodcarving property.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiated the investigation, uncovering evidence that Richard knowingly circumvented established hazardous waste management procedures. This involved a blatant disregard for the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), the primary federal law governing the disposal of solid and hazardous waste. Investigators found the drums buried on site, posing a potential threat to groundwater and surrounding ecosystems.
The indictment, filed on August 3, 1995, charged Richard with one count of violating 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) – a specific section of RCRA that prohibits the knowing treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste without a permit. This law is designed to ensure hazardous materials are managed in a way that protects human health and the environment. Richard entered a guilty plea on June 15, 1995.
The case highlights a recurring issue within the hazardous waste industry: the temptation to cut corners and prioritize profit over responsible environmental practices. While Cranford Woodcarving, Inc. was not directly charged in this instance, the incident likely prompted a review of their internal waste management procedures. The EPA continues to aggressively pursue enforcement actions against individuals and companies that violate RCRA regulations, emphasizing the severity of environmental crimes.
The sentencing of Richard serves as a warning that deliberate and fraudulent disposal of hazardous waste will not be tolerated. The EPA’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws remains steadfast, aiming to protect communities from the dangers posed by improperly handled toxic materials. The 27-month incarceration, though seemingly modest, sends a clear message about the legal consequences of such actions.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Paul E. Richard
- Location: Hickory, North Carolina
- Year of Offense: 1993 (disposal), 1996 (sentencing)
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) – Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
- Details: Richard accepted payment to properly dispose of 18 drums of hazardous waste but instead illegally dumped and buried them on the Cranford Woodcarving, Inc. property.
- Penalty: 27 months incarceration and $50 in court costs.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
White Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar CrimeWhite Collar Crime