Atlanta, GA – Windsor Webb Hodge was sentenced to 69 months in federal prison in 2012 following a complex investigation that intertwined illegal firearms and drug activity with improper handling of hazardous waste. The case, initially triggered by an ATF investigation, revealed a disturbing pattern of criminal behavior that led to multiple federal charges and a significant penalty.
The investigation began on July 27, 2011, when the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division (EPA-CID) received information related to the ongoing ATF probe. Agents discovered Hodge in possession of approximately 88 thermostat switches containing elemental mercury – a highly toxic substance – and a medicine vial also filled with elemental mercury. This discovery immediately flagged a violation of federal environmental regulations regarding the handling and storage of hazardous waste.
From Mercury to Mayhem
However, the hazardous waste wasn’t the extent of Hodge’s alleged crimes. A deeper dive uncovered a cache of illegal firearms and narcotics. On August 2, 2011, Hodge was formally charged with a slew of federal offenses, painting a picture of a dangerous individual involved in multiple illegal activities. The charges included possession of unregistered silencers, being a felon in possession of firearms and explosives, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute.
Legal Battles & Plea Deal
Hodge initially faced six separate counts under federal law. Specifically, he was charged with violating 18 U.S.C. 842(i) (Felon in possession of explosives), 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(1) (Felon in possession of firearms), 18 U.S.C. 924(c) (Possessing firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking), 21 U.S.C. 841(a)(1) (Possession with intent to distribute controlled substances), 26 U.S.C. 5841 (Unregistered silencer), and 42 U.S.C. 6928(d)(2) (Improper storage of hazardous waste). Ultimately, Hodge entered a guilty plea to a single count, with the remaining charges dismissed as part of a plea agreement with federal prosecutors.
Sentence & Fines
On February 29, 2012, Judge [Judge’s Name not provided in source data] handed down the sentence: 69 months of incarceration, followed by a 36-month probationary period. In addition to the prison term and probation, Hodge was ordered to pay a $3,500 federal fine. The case underscores the EPA’s commitment to pursuing criminal enforcement actions against those who endanger public health and the environment through the improper handling of hazardous materials, particularly when combined with other serious criminal offenses.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Windsor Webb Hodge
- State: Georgia
- Year: 2012
- Hazardous Waste: 88 thermostat switches & vial containing elemental mercury
- Firearms Charges: Possession of unregistered silencer, firearms, and explosives as a convicted felon
- Drug Charges: Possession with intent to distribute controlled substances
- Sentence: 69 months incarceration, 36 months probation, $3,500 fine
GrimyTimes will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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