SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – An Iowa company has pleaded guilty to releasing thousands of gallons of gasoline-contaminated water into the city sewer system of Duenweg, Mo.
Seneca Companies, Inc., a petroleum and hazardous materials handling company headquartered in Des Moines, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to the negligent introduction of a pollutant or hazardous substance into a publicly owned sewer system without any permit. Seneca is a petroleum and hazardous materials handling company headquartered in Des Moines.
The crime occurred on December 16, 2010, when Seneca employees pumped gasoline-contaminated water out of a containment sump on Casey’s property into the sewer system, releasing a hazardous substance or pollutant (water tainted with gasoline), which was an illegal discharge.
Approximately 30 to 40 minutes later, Casey’s employees detected a strong odor of gasoline and immediately notified the Duenweg Fire Department and the Seneca crew. The Duenweg Fire Department responded and immediately requested assistance from Joplin, Mo., fire and hazmat personnel, who also responded. The Joplin Fire Department personnel conducted atmospheric testing from various down flow sewer manholes from Casey’s and confirmed gasoline vapors above the lower explosive limit in the sewer under the Duenweg elementary school, causing the 150 students to be immediately evacuated from the school.
Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Seneca must pay a fine of at least $75,000, up to $200,000, as well as restitution during a term of five years of probation. Seneca must conduct annual training for all employees engaged in the repair of underground gasoline storage tanks on the proper and lawful disposal and removal of pollutants or hazardous materials from underground gasoline storage tanks. The company must also publish a public apology consisting of an advertisement in the Joplin Globe for seven consecutive days.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abram McGull II. It was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The incident is just a reminder of the importance of proper environmental practices and the severe consequences of neglecting them. Seneca Companies, Inc. must face the music for their role in polluting the Missouri sewer system.
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Key Facts
- State: Missouri
- Category: Environmental Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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