Tenley Miller, Falsifying Water Testing Results, West Virginia 2023

BRIDGEPORT, WV – Tenley Miller, 42, of Bridgeport, West Virginia, has been sentenced to one year of probation and a $100 special assessment following a criminal investigation into falsified water testing results. Miller, the owner of Reliance Laboratories, Inc., pleaded guilty to defrauding the City of Martinsburg and the State of West Virginia by submitting fabricated data related to public drinking water safety.

The case, brought forth by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) criminal enforcement program, revealed a disturbing breach of public trust. In May 2021, the City of Martinsburg contracted Reliance Laboratories to analyze water samples as mandated by the Safe Drinking Water Act. Miller reported to the city – and subsequently to state regulators – that the samples met safety standards. However, federal investigators discovered that no actual testing occurred. Miller admitted her laboratory equipment was non-operational at the time the samples were received.

This deception meant that the City of Martinsburg unknowingly reported inaccurate information to the State of West Virginia, potentially putting the health and safety of its residents at risk. The EPA’s investigation uncovered that Miller knowingly falsified the reports, prioritizing profit over public wellbeing. The agency emphasized the seriousness of such violations, stating that accurate water testing is critical for protecting communities from waterborne illnesses and contaminants.

“The integrity of water testing is paramount to public health,” stated an EPA spokesperson. “Ms. Miller’s actions were a blatant disregard for the safety of the citizens of Martinsburg and a violation of federal law. This sentencing serves as a reminder that those who attempt to circumvent environmental regulations will be held accountable.” The investigation was conducted by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection.

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Legal Ramifications

Tenley Miller was found to have violated Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. 1001, which prohibits knowingly making false statements to the federal government. This federal statute carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. While Miller received a lighter sentence of one year probation and a $100 special assessment, the conviction remains a matter of public record and could impact her future professional endeavors.

Key Facts

Defendant: Tenley Miller, owner of Reliance Laboratories, Inc.
Location: Bridgeport and Martinsburg, West Virginia
Year of Offense: 2021
Crime: Falsifying public drinking water test results.
Statute Violated: 18 U.S.C. 1001 (False Statements)
Penalty: One year probation, $100 special assessment.

The case highlights the importance of robust oversight and quality control measures within environmental testing laboratories. Authorities are urging other municipalities and agencies to review their contracts and protocols to ensure the accuracy and reliability of environmental data.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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