Seattle, WA – Tryfon Angelou, a second engineer aboard the Greek-owned cargo vessel M/V Gallia Graeca, was convicted in June 2016 of multiple felony charges related to the illegal dumping of oily waste into the Pacific Ocean and a subsequent cover-up. The case, investigated jointly by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, revealed a deliberate scheme to bypass pollution control equipment and falsify records to avoid scrutiny during a Coast Guard inspection.
According to court documents and trial testimony, the M/V Gallia Graeca, traveling from China to Seattle in October 2015, had a malfunctioning oil water separator – a crucial device designed to prevent the discharge of oil-contaminated water. Instead of repairing the equipment, Angelou, along with Chief Engineer Konstantinos Chrysovergis, intentionally bypassed the system on three separate occasions (October 16th, 26th, and 27th) discharging approximately 5,000 gallons of oily bilge water directly into the sea. This practice violates international and U.S. maritime law aimed at protecting marine environments.
The deception extended beyond the illegal discharges. Prosecutors presented evidence demonstrating that the defendants meticulously falsified the ship’s oil record book, claiming no discharges had occurred during the voyage. During the Coast Guard inspection, the engineers actively misled inspectors, operating the malfunctioning separator to create the illusion of proper function. However, inspectors discovered clogged filters and oil residue, indicating a clear attempt to conceal the unlawful pollution. Communications revealed that shipping company executives were involved, directing the engineers on how to present the logbook to avoid potential delays and financial repercussions.
Legal Ramifications
Angelou, along with the ship’s operating company, ANGELAKOS (HELLAS) S.A., and owning company, GALLIA GRAECA SHIPPING LTD, were found guilty of violating several federal statutes, including Title 18 U.S. Criminal Code, specifically 18 U.S.C. 1519 (false statements in a federal investigation), 33 U.S.C. 1908(a) (Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships), and 18 U.S.C. 1001 (false statements). The prosecution successfully argued that the defendants’ actions constituted a scheme to defraud the United States. In August 2016, Angelou was sentenced to 10 days of incarceration for his role in the criminal activity, and Chrysovergis received the same sentence. The companies faced substantial fines and potential operational restrictions.
A Voyage of Deception
Prosecutors characterized the incident as “a voyage of deception and pollution,” highlighting the financial motivation behind the scheme. The M/V Gallia Graeca was under contract to transport $25 million in goods from Seattle, and any delay due to ship detention would have resulted in significant economic losses for the shipping companies. The willingness to risk environmental damage and face criminal prosecution underscores the prioritization of profit over compliance with environmental regulations.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Tryfon Angelou, Konstantinos Chrysovergis, ANGELAKOS (HELLAS) S.A., GALLIA GRAECA SHIPPING LTD
- Location: Pacific Ocean, Seattle, WA
- Date of Offense: October 2015
- Illegally Discharged: Approximately 5,000 gallons of oily bilge water
- Statutes Violated: 18 U.S.C. 1519, 33 U.S.C. 1908(a), 18 U.S.C. 1001, MARPOL Protocol
- Penalty: Tryfon Angelou and Konstantinos Chrysovergis each sentenced to 10 days of incarceration. Companies faced fines and operational restrictions.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the EPA and Coast Guard’s commitment to enforcing maritime pollution laws and holding individuals and corporations accountable for environmental crimes. The investigation highlights the importance of diligent inspections and the pursuit of those who prioritize financial gain over environmental stewardship.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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