Ralph Burgholzer, Pollution, AZ 1987

Bullhead City, AZ – Ralph Burgholzer, the plant operator for the Colorado River Sewage System Joint Venture (JV), pleaded guilty in July 1987 to federal charges stemming from the illegal discharge of raw sewage into the Colorado River. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), revealed a pattern of unpermitted pollution impacting a vital navigable waterway.

The initial indictment, filed September 17, 1986, accused both Burgholzer and JV Chairman of the Board, McIntyre, of four counts each of discharging pollutants without the necessary permits—a direct violation of the Clean Water Act. The charges alleged consistent, unlawful releases from the JV’s Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTW). A superseding indictment followed in March 1987, expanding the scope of the accusations to fifteen counts of unpermitted discharge and adding a charge against Burgholzer of making false statements to federal investigators, specifically violating 18 U.S.C. 1001.

Investigators determined that the Colorado River Sewage System JV, responsible for wastewater treatment in the area, had repeatedly bypassed treatment protocols, resulting in the direct release of untreated sewage into the Colorado River. This not only posed a significant threat to aquatic life and recreational use of the river but also potentially impacted downstream water supplies. The scheme involved deliberately circumventing established regulations designed to protect the environment.

While the full extent of the pollution and its long-term effects remain difficult to quantify, the EPA’s enforcement action sent a clear message about the seriousness of Clean Water Act violations. The case underscores the critical need for responsible operation and oversight of wastewater treatment facilities. Sources close to the investigation suggest that financial pressures and inadequate maintenance contributed to the JV’s non-compliance.

Ultimately, both Burgholzer and McIntyre accepted plea deals. On July 21, 1987, each man pleaded guilty to three counts of unpermitted discharge under 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1). Burgholzer received a sentence of a $75 special assessment and a $7,500 fine. McIntyre, in addition to a $7,500 fine, was forced to resign his position as chairman of the Joint Venture Sewer System, effectively removing him from a position of authority over the facility.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: Ralph Burgholzer
Location: Colorado River, Arizona
Year: 1987
Laws Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1311(a), 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1), 18 U.S.C. 1001
Charges: Unpermitted discharge of pollutants into navigable waters, false statements.
Penalties: Burgholzer – $7,500 fine + $75 assessment. McIntyre – $7,500 fine and resignation from position.
The Colorado River Sewage System Joint Venture was responsible for the illegal discharges.

GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases and report on the prosecution of those who endanger our waterways.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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