Wheat Ridge Sanitation District, Environmental Crime, CO 1993

Denver, CO – The Wheat Ridge Sanitation District (WDS), a public entity serving the Denver suburbs, and its former acting superintendent, have been penalized for a pattern of environmental violations dating back to 1993. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and resulting in both corporate and individual convictions, highlights a disturbing disregard for federal regulations governing waste disposal and water quality.

The initial indictment, filed February 26, 1993, accused acting superintendent Hart of six counts of violating the Clean Water Act (CWA) through false statements and three counts of violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) relating to illegal disposal practices. The charges stemmed from evidence suggesting WDS was not adhering to proper procedures for handling and disposing of hazardous waste, potentially contaminating local water sources and posing risks to public health.

However, the case took a turn on April 30, 1993, when WDS opted to waive indictment and accept an information charging the district with a single count each of violating RCRA and the CWA – specifically, illegal disposal and providing false statements. This plea bargain signaled a willingness to cooperate with investigators and potentially mitigate the penalties. The district ultimately pled guilty on June 3, 1993, and was sentenced to a $35,000 fine.

While the district faced a financial penalty, the superintendent, Hart, bore the brunt of the legal consequences. He pled guilty to the three CWA violations, with the remaining charges dismissed. Hart was sentenced to 27 months of confinement – a substantial prison term reflecting the severity of his actions. He subsequently appealed the sentence, arguing its length was excessive, but the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the original judgment, solidifying the conviction.

The violations under scrutiny included specific sections of federal law: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) pertaining to illegal hazardous waste disposal under RCRA, and 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1) addressing false reporting under the Clean Water Act. These laws are designed to protect the environment and public health by ensuring responsible waste management and accurate data reporting to regulatory agencies. The EPA’s enforcement actions in this case demonstrate its commitment to pursuing environmental criminals, regardless of whether they are individuals or public entities.

The case serves as a stark reminder that environmental regulations are not merely suggestions, but legally binding requirements. Failure to comply can result in significant financial penalties and, as evidenced by Hart’s imprisonment, personal accountability. The GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases, exposing those who prioritize profit or convenience over the health of our communities.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Wheat Ridge Sanitation District and Hart (acting superintendent)
Location: Wheat Ridge, Colorado (suburb of Denver)
Year: 1993
Violated Laws: Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) – 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) & Clean Water Act (CWA) – 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)
Penalties: WDS – $35,000 fine; Hart – 27 months imprisonment
Charges: Illegal hazardous waste disposal, false statements to the EPA

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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