Tampa, Florida – William Recht, former CEO of the William Recht Co. and owner of Durex Industries, has completed serving a sentence for illegally storing hazardous waste at a Tampa manufacturing facility. The case, stemming from activities between 1993 and 1994, highlights a concerning disregard for environmental regulations and public safety.
The investigation revealed that Durex Industries, a print roller manufacturer, was operating without the necessary permits for the storage of hazardous waste. Recht knowingly allowed the accumulation of dangerous materials at the facility, potentially endangering workers and the surrounding community. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiated the investigation, leading to a federal indictment in July 1998.
Recht faced eight counts of violating the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), specifically 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A), which prohibits the knowing treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste without a permit. While initially pleading not guilty to all charges, Recht ultimately entered a guilty plea to a single count of RCRA violation in September 1998. The remaining seven counts were dismissed as part of the plea agreement.
Penalties and Restitution
In January 1999, Recht received a 30-month probation sentence, a $50 special assessment fee, and was ordered to complete 1,000 hours of community service. Beyond the probationary terms, Recht was also financially penalized. He was directed to pay $1,399 in restitution to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to cover costs associated with the cleanup and investigation. Furthermore, a substantial federal fine of $200,000 was levied against him.
Environmental Impact & Regulatory Oversight
The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent environmental regulations and the consequences of non-compliance. Improper hazardous waste storage can lead to soil and water contamination, posing significant risks to public health and ecosystems. The EPA’s criminal enforcement program aims to deter such behavior and hold individuals and companies accountable for their actions.
Key Facts
- Defendant: William Recht
- Company: William Recht Co./Durex Industries
- Location: Tampa, Florida
- Crime: Illegal storage of hazardous waste
- Statute Violated: 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2)(A) – RCRA
- Sentence: 30 months probation, $50 assessment, 1000 hours community service, $1,399 restitution, $200,000 fine
- Plea: Guilty to one count of RCRA violation
- Indictment Date: July 28, 1998
GrimyTimes will continue to follow cases of environmental crime and provide updates on efforts to protect communities from hazardous waste and pollution.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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