Colebrook, NH – Phil J. Lambert, Jr., former president of Phil Lambert, Inc., narrowly avoided jail time after pleading guilty to federal charges stemming from the illegal discharge of pollutants into Beaver Brook and surrounding wetlands in 1989. The case, brought by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlighted the damage caused by unauthorized alterations to sensitive ecosystems and underscored the federal government’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations.
Lambert, through his company, knowingly and intentionally caused pollutants to be discharged without the required permits, impacting a valuable brook trout fishery. The wetlands, a critical component of the local ecosystem, suffered significant damage as a result of the unlawful activity. Investigators determined the pollution stemmed from unauthorized construction and land modification on property owned by Phil Lambert, Inc.
The investigation began following reports of discoloration and unusual activity in Beaver Brook. EPA officials, working with state environmental agencies, quickly traced the source to the Lambert property. Evidence suggested a deliberate disregard for environmental protection protocols, with the company failing to implement necessary safeguards to prevent pollutants from entering the waterway.
On November 27, 1989, Lambert and his company were formally charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the Clean Water Act and 18 U.S.C. 371. Rather than contest the charges, Lambert waived indictment and entered a guilty plea, expediting the legal proceedings. The prosecution argued that Lambert prioritized profit over environmental responsibility, creating a lasting impact on the local ecosystem.
Sentencing and Restitution
On January 22, 1990, Judge [Name of Judge not provided in source data] handed down a suspended sentence of 24 months incarceration for Lambert, placing him on 24 months probation. Phil Lambert, Inc. also received 24 months probation. While a potential $20,000 fine was waived, the court acknowledged Lambert’s significant investment – totaling $100,000 – in restoring the damaged site. As further restitution, Lambert agreed to donate five acres of pristine land to the State of New Hampshire for conservation purposes. Both defendants were also ordered to pay a $50 assessment to the Crime Victim’s Fund.
Legal Ramifications
The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of violating federal environmental laws. Lambert’s actions were found to be in direct violation of 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A), a section of the Clean Water Act prohibiting the discharge of pollutants into navigable waters without a permit, and 18 U.S.C. 371, which addresses conspiracy to commit offenses against the United States. The EPA continues to pursue similar cases nationwide, aiming to protect vital water resources and hold polluters accountable.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Phil J. Lambert, Jr. and Phil Lambert, Inc.
- Location: Colebrook, New Hampshire
- Year: 1990
- Crime: Illegal discharge of pollutants into Beaver Brook and wetlands, violating the Clean Water Act.
- Statutes Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A), 18 U.S.C. 371
- Penalty: 24 months suspended incarceration, 24 months probation for both defendants, $100,000 site restoration, 5-acre land donation, $50 Crime Victim’s Fund assessment.
- Impact: Damage to a native brook trout fishery and surrounding wetlands.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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