Warren, PA – A former wastewater treatment plant operator and a colleague were sentenced earlier this year following a federal investigation into the illegal dumping of raw sewage and sludge into Brokenstraw Creek. William Lee Slocum, Jr. and Martin, whose full name was not released by the EPA, knowingly circumvented environmental regulations, endangering public health and the creek’s delicate ecosystem.
The investigation, which began in 1999, revealed a pattern of negligence and deliberate deception at the wastewater treatment plant. Slocum and Martin intentionally bypassed the plant’s treatment systems, allowing untreated sewage to flow directly into Brokenstraw Creek. Simultaneously, they neglected the removal of accumulated sludge, further contributing to the contamination of the waterway. This practice posed a significant risk to residents who use the creek for recreational activities, as raw sewage and sludge often contain harmful bacteria like E. coli and other pathogens capable of causing serious illness.
Federal prosecutors detailed how the pair actively covered up the plant’s failing infrastructure. Flow monitoring equipment was tampered with, and false reports were submitted to regulatory agencies, creating the illusion of compliance while the plant operated far beyond its capacity. This deliberate misrepresentation hindered oversight and allowed the pollution to continue unabated. The EPA’s criminal enforcement division brought charges after uncovering discrepancies in the reported data and conducting on-site inspections.
Slocum was initially indicted on charges of conspiracy (18 U.S.C. 371) and violating the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A)). He ultimately pled guilty to six lesser counts of negligent violation of the Clean Water Act (33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)(A)), with the conspiracy charge dismissed as part of the plea agreement. Martin also pled guilty to one count of conspiracy (18 U.S.C. 371) and one count of violating the Clean Water Act by making false statements (33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(4)).
Sentencing & Penalties
On May 9, 2000, Slocum received a one-month jail sentence to be served concurrently on all six counts, along with a 12-month probation period. He was also ordered to pay a $150 special assessment fee and a $15,000 federal fine. Martin received a lighter sentence of 12 months probation and was ordered to pay $2,500 in federal fines on June 19, 2000. While the sentences may seem lenient, the EPA maintains that criminal prosecutions serve as a deterrent, sending a clear message that environmental crimes will be pursued and punished.
Key Facts
- Defendant(s): William Lee Slocum, Jr. and Martin
- Location: Brokenstraw Creek, Pennsylvania
- Year: 2000
- Violated Statutes: 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(1)(A), 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(2)(A), 33 U.S.C. 1319(c)(4), 18 U.S.C. 371
- Crime: Illegal discharge of raw sewage and sludge, falsifying environmental reports.
- Penalties: Slocum – 1 month incarceration, 12 months probation, $15,150 in fines. Martin – 12 months probation, $2,500 in fines.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by environmental regulators in ensuring compliance with the Clean Water Act and protecting vital water resources. The GrimyTimes will continue to follow developments in environmental crime and report on those who put profit and convenience ahead of public health and the environment.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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