Bethel, CT – Vanderbilt Chemical Corporation and a former company executive have admitted to federal crimes stemming from the illegal disposal of hazardous waste and subsequent cover-up, according to court records unsealed this week. The case, originating in 1989, reveals a pattern of knowingly circumventing environmental regulations at the company’s Bethel, Connecticut facility, a site it has continuously operated since 1948.
Henry Baer, who served as plant manager from 1978 to 1986 and later as vice president, played a central role in the scheme. Baer was responsible for ensuring the lawful disposal of chemical byproducts generated at the facility. However, investigators uncovered evidence that Vanderbilt Chemical knowingly disposed of sulphuric acid – a highly corrosive and dangerous substance – without obtaining the necessary permits required under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) investigation revealed that Vanderbilt Chemical and Baer actively concealed the improper disposal practices through false statements made to authorities. Both the corporation and Baer waived indictment and pled guilty to the charges on March 8, 1989. The corporation faced two counts of making false statements in violation of 18 U.S.C. 1001, and one count of knowingly disposing of hazardous waste in violation of RCRA, specifically 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A). Baer was charged with a single count of making a false statement under 18 U.S.C. 1001.
Sentencing & Penalties
On May 31, 1989, Baer received a sentence of a $10,000 fine, 36 months of incarceration suspended, 36 months of probation, 300 hours of community service, and a $50 payment to the Crime Victim’s Fund. Vanderbilt Chemical Corporation faced a more substantial penalty, sentenced on June 2, 1989, to pay a $1,050,000 fine, with $500,000 suspended. The company was also ordered to provide $500,000 in restitution to the State of Connecticut, serve a 24-month probationary period, and contribute $400 to the Crime Victim’s Fund.
Regulatory Implications
This case underscores the EPA’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and holding corporations accountable for endangering public health and the environment. The deliberate falsification of records and the illegal disposal of hazardous materials represent a significant breach of trust and a blatant disregard for the law. The RCRA violations highlight the importance of proper hazardous waste management and the potential consequences of failing to adhere to strict regulatory guidelines.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Vanderbilt Chemical Corporation & Henry Baer
- Location: Bethel, Connecticut
- Year: 1989
- Laws Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) (RCRA), 18 U.S.C. 1001 (False Statements)
- Hazardous Waste: Sulphuric Acid
- Baer’s Sentence: $10,000 fine, 36 months suspended incarceration, 36 months probation, 300 hours community service, $50 to Crime Victim’s Fund
- Vanderbilt Chemical’s Sentence: $1,050,000 fine ($500,000 suspended), $500,000 restitution to Connecticut, 24 months probation, $400 to Crime Victim’s Fund
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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