William J. Perley, Clean Water Act Violation, CA 2002

Crockett, CA – A former wastewater treatment plant manager has been sentenced for falsifying reports submitted to both state and federal environmental agencies, a case highlighting the potential for industrial negligence to harm sensitive ecosystems. William J. Perley, who managed the Crockett-Varona Waste Water Treatment Plant, admitted to submitting inaccurate data regarding chlorine levels in wastewater discharged by the C&H Sugar Company.

Between January 1995 and July 1998, Perley knowingly filed ten separate monthly reports to the California Regional Water Quality Control Board and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These reports falsely indicated that no chlorine was present in the effluent released from the C&H Sugar facility. However, internal testing revealed that the wastewater *did* contain reportable amounts of the chemical – levels that could be detrimental to aquatic life.

The deliberate misreporting concealed violations of the plant’s permit conditions, potentially exposing fish and other organisms to harmful levels of chlorine. Chlorine, while used for disinfection, is highly toxic to aquatic species even in relatively low concentrations. The falsified reports allowed C&H Sugar to avoid potential scrutiny and corrective action from regulators, effectively shielding them from responsibility.

The case came to light through an EPA investigation, culminating in an indictment on January 18, 2002. Perley was charged with one count of violating the Clean Water Act (CWA), specifically 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1), which addresses negligent violations of permit conditions. He subsequently entered a guilty plea, acknowledging his intentional misrepresentation of data.

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Sentencing & Penalties

On April 23, 2002, Perley received a sentence of 36 months probation and was ordered to pay $2,500 in federal fines. While the penalties may seem relatively minor, legal experts note that such cases often serve as deterrents, sending a message that environmental violations will not be tolerated. The EPA continues to emphasize the importance of accurate reporting and compliance with environmental regulations to protect public health and the environment.

Key Facts

Defendant: William J. Perley
Location: Crockett, California
Crime: Falsifying Clean Water Act reports
Dates of Offense: January 1995 – July 1998
Statute Violated: 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1) – Negligent violation of a permit condition under the Clean Water Act
Penalty: 36 months probation, $2,500 fine
Impact: Potential harm to aquatic life due to unreported chlorine levels.

This case underscores the critical role wastewater treatment plant managers play in safeguarding the environment. The GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases and report on efforts to hold polluters accountable.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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