Tacoma, WA – Ryan Lewis, owner of Cleaner Pressure Washing, LLC, has been sentenced to pay $50,000 in fines and restitution and serve two years of probation following a lengthy investigation into illegal chemical dumping. The case, stemming from operations at his Tacoma-based truck washing business, highlights ongoing concerns regarding improper hazardous waste disposal and its impact on municipal sewer systems.
Cleaner Pressure Washing, founded in 2011, routinely utilized dangerous chemicals, notably hydrofluoric acid, as part of its washing processes. However, authorities allege Lewis repeatedly failed to adhere to environmental regulations regarding the handling and disposal of these materials. City of Tacoma inspectors documented numerous compliance issues and engaged in repeated counseling sessions with Lewis in an attempt to rectify the problems.
Despite ongoing guidance from both the City of Tacoma and the Washington State Department of Ecology, Lewis allegedly continued to discharge hazardous chemicals directly into the city’s sewer system. These repeated violations prompted escalating scrutiny and ultimately led to the closure of the facility. The Department of Ecology worked in conjunction with local authorities to build the case against Lewis and Cleaner Pressure Washing.
Details of the Violation
The investigation revealed a pattern of negligence in handling and disposing of hydrofluoric acid and other cleaning agents. Hydrofluoric acid is a particularly dangerous substance, capable of causing severe burns and posing a significant threat to water treatment facilities if improperly discharged. The illegal dumping risked damage to the city’s infrastructure and potential harm to the environment and public health. The exact nature of the restitution will cover costs associated with cleanup and potential damages to the sewer system.
Legal Ramifications
On March 9, 2017, Lewis and his company were formally ordered to pay the $50,000 penalty and adhere to the terms of a two-year probationary period. The violations were determined to be in direct contravention of Washington State environmental regulations pertaining to hazardous waste management. While specific citations were not publicly released, the charges fall under state laws designed to protect waterways and ensure responsible industrial practices. Failure to comply with the terms of his probation could result in further legal action, including potential imprisonment.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Ryan Lewis, Cleaner Pressure Washing, LLC
- Location: Tacoma, Washington
- Year: 2017
- Crime: Illegal dumping of hazardous chemicals (hydrofluoric acid) into the city sewer system.
- Penalty: $50,000 in fines and restitution, two years probation.
- Violated Statutes: Washington State environmental regulations regarding hazardous waste disposal.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of environmental compliance for businesses handling hazardous materials. Authorities are urging all industrial operators to prioritize responsible waste management practices to avoid similar legal repercussions and protect the community.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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