Steve Eiffler, Unlawful Discharge of Pollutants, Utah 2006

Salt Lake City, UT – A Salt Lake County man received a lengthy prison sentence and hefty fines after illegally processing what he believed to be gold in his motel room, releasing dangerous levels of mercury and prompting a hazardous materials investigation. Steve Eiffler, a resident and employee of the Overnight Motor Inn, was sentenced to 60 months incarceration after pleading guilty to unlawful discharge of pollutants.

The incident began in June 2005, when Eiffler, while digging under the motel kitchen, discovered a layer of black sand. Believing the sand contained gold, he embarked on a dangerous and illegal scheme to extract it. Using a tablespoon of mercury, Eiffler attempted to process the sand in the sink and bathtub of his motel room. This reckless act quickly backfired, as the heated mercury fumes caused him to pass out, leading to hospitalization for mercury exposure.

The Salt Lake County Health Department became involved after receiving reports of a potential mercury contamination within the motel room. Concerned for public health and safety, they contacted the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assess the situation. EPA investigators quickly confirmed the presence of dangerously high levels of mercury vapor – exceeding established action levels – throughout the room. Elemental mercury was also discovered in the p-traps of both the sink and bathtub, indicating a significant and ongoing release of the toxic substance.

The EPA’s investigation revealed Eiffler’s illicit operation and the significant environmental and health risks it posed. Mercury is a potent neurotoxin, and even short-term exposure can cause severe health problems. Long-term exposure, as was a potential risk in this case, can lead to neurological damage, kidney problems, and developmental issues.

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Legal Ramifications & Penalties

Eiffler was initially charged on June 20, 2005, with one count of unlawful discharge of pollutants, a violation of Utah Code: 19-5-107(1)(a). He pleaded guilty to the charge on April 12, 2006. On July 28, 2006, he received a sentence of 60 months incarceration. In addition to his prison term, Eiffler was ordered to pay a $5,000 state fine and $25,825 in restitution to both the EPA and the Salt Lake County Health Department to cover the costs of the cleanup and investigation.

Key Facts

Defendant: Steve Eiffler
Location: Overnight Motor Inn, Salt Lake City, Utah
Crime: Unlawful discharge of pollutants (mercury)
Discovery: Eiffler found black sand and attempted to pan for gold.
Exposure: Eiffler was hospitalized for mercury exposure after inhaling fumes.
Statute Violated: Utah Code: 19-5-107(1)(a)
Sentence: 60 months incarceration, $5,000 fine, $25,825 restitution

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of improper handling of hazardous materials and the severe consequences of violating environmental regulations. Authorities emphasize the importance of safe and legal methods for handling potential resources and the need to prioritize public health and environmental protection.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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