TACOMA, WA – Stephen C. Mason, owner of the derelict vessel Helena Star, has pleaded guilty to abandoning a derelict vessel and discharging pollution into state waters, stemming from the ship’s sinking in the Hylebos Waterway in Pierce County. The plea, entered on October 23, 2014, concludes a case brought by Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson, highlighting the state’s increased efforts to combat environmental crimes and hold responsible those who endanger Puget Sound.
The Helena Star, originally acquired by California investors in 2010, was brought to Mason’s property with the intent of being scrapped. However, the work was never completed, and the vessel was left to deteriorate. In January 2013, the ship ultimately sank, releasing hundreds of gallons of fuel and oil into the sensitive Hylebos Waterway ecosystem. The subsequent cleanup operation totaled $1.25 million, placing a significant financial burden on Washington taxpayers.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, Mason was sentenced to 20 days of confinement, potentially served through electronic home monitoring, and two years of probation. More significantly, he is ordered to repay the state $300,000 towards the total cleanup costs. Authorities emphasized that Mason is also required to cooperate with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in securing the remaining restitution from other investors in the Helena Star. The recovered funds will be distributed, with $250,000 going to the DNR Derelict Vessel Removal Program and $50,000 to the Department of Ecology’s Coastal Protection Fund, used for oil spill cleanup.
Legal Ramifications
Mason faced charges under Washington State law for abandoning a derelict vessel and discharging polluting matters into state waters. Abandoning a derelict vessel carries a potential penalty of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, in addition to restitution and assessments. The charge of discharging pollutants into state waters carries a potential penalty of up to 364 days in jail, a $10,000 fine, and further restitution and assessments. While Mason received a reduced sentence through the plea agreement, the substantial financial restitution underscores the severity of the offenses.
A Growing Concern
“Derelict vessels cause substantial environmental damage and cost taxpayers millions of dollars,” stated Attorney General Ferguson. “If you break our state laws and pollute our environment, we will hold you accountable.” Officials noted that derelict vessels are responsible for thousands of gallons of fuel released into Washington waters annually, posing a constant threat to aquatic life and recreational areas. This case represents the second successful derelict vessel conviction secured by the Attorney General’s Office, demonstrating a commitment to addressing this ongoing issue.
Future Recovery Efforts
The Helena Star was removed from the Hylebos Waterway in July 2014 and scrapped. Any funds recovered from the sale of the scrap metal will be returned to the state’s Derelict Vessel Removal Program. The Attorney General’s Office collaborated with the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office on this case, showcasing a coordinated effort to protect Washington’s waterways. The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Josh Choate.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Stephen C. Mason
- Vessel: Helena Star
- Location: Hylebos Waterway, Pierce County, WA
- Charges: Abandoning a derelict vessel, discharging pollution into state waters
- Sentence: 20 days confinement (potential electronic home monitoring), 2 years probation
- Restitution: $300,000 to the state (towards $1.25 million total cleanup cost)
- Total Cleanup Cost: $1.25 million
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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