Tacoma, WA – Ryan Lewis, owner of now-defunct Cleaner Pressure Washing, LLC, has been slapped with a $50,000 penalty and two years of probation for illegally dumping hazardous chemicals into the City of Tacoma’s sewer system. The case, stemming from consistent violations discovered in 2017, highlights a pattern of disregard for environmental regulations and repeated warnings from local authorities.
Cleaner Pressure Washing, established in Tacoma in 2011, utilized powerful – and dangerous – cleaning agents, most notably hydrofluoric acid, in its commercial truck washing operations. While the use of such chemicals isn’t inherently illegal, proper handling, storage, and *disposal* are strictly regulated. According to investigators, Lewis repeatedly failed to adhere to these regulations, opting instead to discharge the hazardous waste directly into the municipal sewer system.
The violations didn’t occur in a vacuum. City of Tacoma inspectors conducted multiple site visits beginning prior to 2017, offering guidance and outlining the necessary steps to achieve compliance. These efforts, however, proved unsuccessful. The Washington State Department of Ecology also joined the investigation, conducting its own inspections and issuing further warnings. Despite these interventions, Lewis continued the illegal dumping practice, ultimately leading to the closure of Cleaner Pressure Washing.
Legal Ramifications
On March 9, 2017, Lewis and his company were formally ordered to pay $50,000 in fines and restitution. The financial penalty is intended to cover the costs associated with mitigating the environmental damage caused by the chemical discharge, as well as to deter future offenses. In addition to the financial burden, Lewis will be under court-supervised probation for a period of two years. Any violation of the probation terms could result in further legal consequences, including potential jail time.
A Pattern of Non-Compliance
While specific statutes violated haven’t been publicly detailed beyond a reference to state laws regarding hazardous waste disposal, the case underscores the importance of responsible waste management practices for businesses handling dangerous materials. Experts suggest that Lewis’s actions demonstrated a deliberate disregard for both public safety and environmental protection. The repeated warnings issued by inspectors were ignored, suggesting a calculated risk taken in the interest of cutting costs and avoiding proper disposal procedures.
Looking Ahead
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), while not directly involved in the prosecution, often collaborates with state and local agencies on such cases. This outcome sends a clear message that environmental crimes will not be tolerated. Authorities are increasingly focused on holding individuals and businesses accountable for their actions, and ensuring the protection of our waterways and communities.
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.
- Penalties: $50,000 in fines and restitution, two years probation.
- Violated Laws: Washington State hazardous waste disposal regulations.
- Prior Warnings: Multiple inspections and counseling sessions from City of Tacoma and WA Dept. of Ecology.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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