State Wide Metal Recycling, Hazardous Waste, IA 1998

Des Moines, IA – State Wide Metal Recycling, an Iowa scrap metal processor, was hit with hefty fines and jail time in 1998 after illegally handling and disposing of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a known carcinogen. The case, brought to light through court records, reveals a pattern of unlawful hazardous waste management practices that endangered both public health and the environment.

According to an Information filed on September 9, 1997, State Wide Metal Recycling and one of its principals, identified as Bovee, faced eight counts of violating Iowa’s hazardous waste regulations. The charges centered around the unlawful transportation, storage, and disposal of PCB-containing waste material. PCBs, once widely used in electrical equipment, are highly toxic and require stringent handling and disposal procedures due to their persistence in the environment and potential to cause cancer.

The investigation, conducted by state environmental authorities, uncovered evidence that State Wide Metal Recycling failed to adhere to these critical regulations. Instead of properly managing the PCB waste, the company engaged in practices that put the surrounding community at risk. Details of *how* the waste was improperly handled remain scarce in publicly available records, but the charges indicate a clear disregard for environmental safety protocols.

On December 12, 1997, both State Wide Metal Recycling and Bovee entered guilty pleas to one count each of illegal storage of hazardous waste, specifically in violation of section 716B.2.B of the Code of Iowa. The sentencing reflected the severity of the offense. Bovee was sentenced to 12 months incarceration, followed by 24 months of probation, and ordered to pay $30,000 in federal fines. State Wide Metal Recycling received a $50,000 fine, along with a 30% surcharge, and was also responsible for covering the state’s investigative costs. A portion of the company’s fine—$20,000—was suspended, the reasoning for which is not detailed in available reports.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous oversight in the hazardous waste management industry. Improper disposal of PCBs can lead to long-term environmental contamination and serious health consequences for those exposed. While the financial penalties and imprisonment imposed on State Wide Metal Recycling and Bovee aimed to deter future violations, the incident underscores the need for continued vigilance and enforcement of environmental regulations.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: State Wide Metal Recycling and Bovee
Crime: Illegal handling and disposal of hazardous waste (PCBs)
State: Iowa
Year: 1998
Statutes Violated: Sections 716B.2, 716B.3, and 716B.4 of the Code of Iowa
Penalties: Bovee received 12 months incarceration, 24 months probation, and $30,000 in fines. State Wide Metal Recycling was fined $50,000 (plus surcharge) and ordered to pay investigative costs.

GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases and report on those who put profit over public safety.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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