William Long, Haz Waste Transport, Alaska 1997

Anchorage, AK – William Long was sentenced in July 1997 after pleading guilty to illegally transporting and storing hazardous waste, a violation of Alaska state environmental laws. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), highlights the risks associated with improper handling of dangerous materials and the importance of adhering to strict regulations governing their movement and disposal.

According to court documents, Long transported five 55-gallon drums of hazardous waste from Kalispell, Montana, to Columbia Falls, Montana in November 1996. The critical issue wasn’t merely the *transport* of the waste, but the manner in which it occurred. Long lacked the necessary permits required for transporting hazardous materials across state lines, a clear breach of established protocols designed to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The waste was then stored and ultimately intended for disposal at an unpermitted facility, further compounding the violations.

The EPA’s investigation revealed a deliberate disregard for regulations intended to prevent environmental contamination. Unpermitted facilities lack the safeguards necessary to contain leaks, spills, or improper disposal, potentially leading to soil and water pollution, and posing significant health risks to nearby communities. The specific nature of the hazardous waste was not disclosed in available records, but any unregulated storage represents a serious threat.

The case initially came to light on November 15, 1996, when an Information was filed charging Long with two counts of violating state environmental laws. After several months, on June 16, 1997, Long entered a guilty plea on both counts. The sentencing, handed down on July 17, 1997, saw Long receive a 12-month probationary period and ordered to pay $555 in federal fines. While seemingly minor, environmental crimes often carry significant financial penalties and can escalate to felony charges with imprisonment for repeat or egregious offenses.

The relatively light sentence has drawn some criticism from environmental advocacy groups, who argue that penalties for illegal hazardous waste handling should be far more substantial to deter future violations. They point to the long-term environmental and health costs associated with improper disposal, which can far outweigh the initial financial gain for those who cut corners on regulations. The EPA continues to prioritize enforcement of hazardous waste laws, conducting regular inspections and investigations to ensure compliance.

Table of Contents

Key Facts

Defendant: William Long
State: Alaska (transport originated in Montana)
Year: 1997
Crime: Illegal Transportation & Storage of Hazardous Waste
Statutes Violated: Alaska State Environmental Laws (specific citations unavailable)
Penalty: 12 months probation and $555 in federal fines
Waste Quantity: Five 55-gallon drums
Transport Route: Kalispell, MT to Columbia Falls, MT

GrimyTimes will continue to follow environmental crime cases and provide updates as they develop.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

Related Federal Cases