Honolulu, HI – U.S. Dry Cleaning Corp. (USDC) has been sentenced to a three-year term of probation and ordered to publish two public apologies after pleading guilty to violating federal hazardous waste regulations. The case, stemming from illegal disposal practices at its Young’s Laundry & Dry Cleaning (YLD) regional operation in Hawaii, highlights a deliberate attempt to circumvent environmental safeguards and cut costs at the expense of public health and safety.
According to court documents, in January 2017, Ruth Ann Newby, then-Regional Manager for YLD, contracted an individual to remove drums containing perchloroethylene (perc) – a known hazardous waste listed under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Newby allegedly paid $15,000 for the removal, a sum significantly lower than the standard rates charged by licensed and compliant hazardous waste disposal companies. Critically, the transfer occurred without proper manifests, the legally required tracking documents ensuring safe handling and destination of hazardous materials.
The illegally removed drums were transported not to a permitted treatment, storage, or disposal facility, but to a private warehouse. USDC then attempted to cover up the illicit activity by fabricating a false manifest, submitted with the intention of misleading the Hawaii Department of Health (HDOH) and concealing the improper disposal. This fabrication further compounded the severity of the offenses, demonstrating a clear intent to deceive regulators.
Investigation and Prosecution
The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division uncovered the scheme, leading to federal charges against both the corporation and Newby. The investigation revealed a pattern of disregard for environmental regulations and a prioritization of profit over responsible waste management. While Newby was sentenced in 2020 to a $2,000 fine and one year of probation for her role in the scheme, the corporation itself faced more substantial penalties.
The recent sentencing of USDC on May 9, 2022, underscores the EPA’s commitment to pursuing corporate accountability for environmental crimes. The three-year probation period will subject the company to oversight and monitoring to ensure future compliance. The requirement to publish apologies is intended to publicly acknowledge the wrongdoing and demonstrate a commitment to rectifying the harm caused by their actions.
Legal Ramifications and Penalties
USDC pleaded guilty to violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), specifically 18 U.S.C. 2 and 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(5). These statutes govern the proper handling, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste. Violations carry significant penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment. The case serves as a stark reminder to businesses operating in Hawaii – and nationwide – that environmental compliance is not optional.
Key Facts
- Defendant: U.S. Dry Cleaning Corp.
- Crime: Illegal hazardous waste disposal and falsification of records.
- State: Hawaii
- Year: 2022
- Hazardous Waste: Perchloroethylene (perc)
- Illegal Payment: $15,000 for improper waste removal.
- Penalties: Three years probation, two public apologies.
- Individual Conviction: Ruth Ann Newby, former YLD Regional Manager, received a $2,000 fine and one year probation in 2020.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments. The incident raises questions about oversight of dry cleaning operations and the potential for similar environmental violations across the industry.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
Related Federal Cases
- U.S. Dry Cleaning Corp., Hazardous Waste, HI 2022 · Florida
- Curtis Technology, Inc., Hazardous Waste Transport, CA 2020 · New Hampshire
- Jerome Anches, Hazardous Waste Violation, HI 2010 · California
- Glenn Welch, Hazardous Waste Crime, SC 2018 · Hawaii
- Ruth Ann Newby, Hazardous Waste Crime, HI 2020 · Connecticut
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