CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – A former water treatment plant operator in Edgewood, Iowa, has been sentenced for falsifying reports submitted to state regulators, a case highlighting potential risks to public health and the importance of accurate environmental monitoring. Scott Harris, 43, was sentenced on August 26, 2010, to 24 months of probation, a $1,000 federal fine, and ordered to perform an unspecified amount of community service after pleading guilty to one count of making false statements.
The investigation, a joint effort by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), revealed that Harris, as the certified operator of the Edgewood water treatment plant, deliberately submitted falsified data regarding water quality testing. From February 2008 to July 2009, Harris claimed to have conducted tests for fluoride, chlorine, and manganese levels, vital indicators of safe drinking water. However, investigators determined Harris never actually performed the tests, utilizing purchased Hatch chlorine test kits, and knowingly submitted inaccurate monthly operational reports.
Details of the Deception
The core of the deception centered around residual chlorine testing. Maintaining appropriate chlorine levels is crucial for disinfecting water and eliminating harmful bacteria. The Hatch residual chlorine test provides a quantifiable measure of this disinfection, ensuring the water remains safe for consumption. By falsifying these reports, Harris misrepresented the plant’s ability to meet safety standards, potentially endangering the health of Edgewood’s residents. Fortunately, the investigation found no evidence of actual health issues resulting from the lack of testing.
Legal Ramifications
Harris was initially charged on April 19, 2010, with violating 18 U.S.C. 1001(a)(2), which prohibits knowingly making false statements in a matter within the jurisdiction of the federal government. This specific statute is frequently used in environmental crimes where reporting to agencies like the EPA is required. While Harris faced a potential maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release, the court ultimately opted for a lighter sentence of probation and a fine.
Prosecution and Investigation
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matt Cole, demonstrating the federal government’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations. The collaborative investigation between the EPA and the Iowa DNR underscores the importance of interagency cooperation in uncovering and addressing environmental violations. The EPA routinely investigates and prosecutes individuals and entities that attempt to circumvent environmental laws, aiming to protect public health and the environment.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Scott Harris
- Location: Edgewood, Iowa
- Crime: False Reporting of Water Quality Data
- Statute Violated: 18 U.S.C. 1001(a)(2) – Making False Statements
- Sentence: 24 months probation, $1,000 fine, community service
- Investigation: Joint effort by EPA and Iowa DNR
- Dates: False reports submitted from Feb 2008 – July 2009; sentencing Aug 26, 2010
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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