Alexandria, Louisiana – Roy Daniel Perry was sentenced to probation, community service, and a hefty fine after pleading guilty to polluting Haw Creek, a waterway running through the Kisatchie National Forest Reservation. The case, brought forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights the ongoing struggle to protect Louisiana’s natural resources from illegal dumping and environmental negligence.
According to court documents, Perry intentionally dumped a significant quantity of waste materials directly into Haw Creek. The debris included discarded oil, used auto parts, spent vehicle batteries, and even old blankets. The dumping occurred sometime prior to the filing of charges, with Perry admitting his actions to authorities upon investigation. The location within the Kisatchie National Forest adds a layer of severity, given the area’s ecological significance and recreational use.
The EPA’s criminal enforcement action centered around violations of the Clean Water Act (CWA), specifically 33 U.S.C. § 1319(c)(1)(A). This section of the CWA addresses negligent violations – meaning Perry did not *intend* to cause harm, but acted carelessly and recklessly in a manner that resulted in pollution. Environmental advocates point to cases like Perry’s as examples of the need for stricter penalties and increased surveillance of vulnerable waterways.
On October 18, 1995, Perry was formally charged with the misdemeanor violation. He immediately entered a guilty plea, seemingly accepting responsibility for his actions. The sentencing, handed down the same day, included a 12-month probationary period, requiring Perry to abide by certain conditions set forth by the court. In addition to probation, Perry was ordered to complete 40 hours of community service, presumably related to environmental cleanup or restoration. A fine of $1,500 was also levied against him.
While the penalty may appear relatively modest, EPA officials maintain that even misdemeanor convictions send a strong message that environmental crimes will not be tolerated. “Every illegal discharge, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to the degradation of our waterways,” stated an EPA spokesperson at the time. “We are committed to pursuing all available legal avenues to hold polluters accountable and protect public health and the environment.”
The Haw Creek case, though decades old, continues to serve as a reminder of the constant threat posed by illegal dumping. The Kisatchie National Forest remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and maintaining the purity of its waterways is crucial. GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases in Louisiana and across the nation, bringing to light those who disregard the law and endanger our shared resources.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Roy Daniel Perry
- Location: Haw Creek, Kisatchie National Forest, Alexandria, Louisiana
- Crime: Illegal Dumping/Pollution of Waters
- Statute Violated: 33 U.S.C. § 1319(c)(1)(A) – Negligent violation of the Clean Water Act
- Date of Charge: October 18, 1995
- Penalty: 12 months probation, 40 hours community service, $1,500 fine
- Admittance: Perry admitted to dumping oil, auto parts, batteries, and blankets into Haw Creek.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
