|
  
|
| 
6/24/2026
WT Staff
 Do you have knowledge of an environmental crime? Give us a call at 877-52-WATER (877-529-2837), or email info@wtny.us
June 24, 2026 141 pm EDT
CrimeBox
Historic Conviction Fiscal Year 2012; Case ID# CR_2321 (Louisiana)
Illegal dumping of oil 'With intent to conceal' gets this ship owner $1.2 million in fines
June 24, 2026 141 pm EDT
CrimeBox
Historic Conviction Fiscal Year 2012; Case ID# CR_2321 (Louisiana)
Illegal dumping of oil 'With intent to conceal' gets this ship owner $1.2 million in fines
The bulk carrier marine vessel Polyneos was the source of contaminants deliberately dumped into waters of the USA for a period of months in 2011.
The Defendants in this case are the corporate owner of the vessel, along with its Chief Engineer in charge of operations. A single felony charge was levied by US EPA Criminal Investigation Division and Louisiana authorities for knowing and negligent violation of the Clean Water Act (CWA). The Chief Engineer was further charged with "destruction, alteration or falsification of records". The case was heard in Federal District Court in New Orleans in 2012.
While the vessel was docked in Port of New Orleans from June to October 2011, oily bilge water was pumped overboard into the harbor. Engine room crew members emptied the bilge and sludge tanks, according to the bill of information submitted to the court.
The Chief Engineer altered the vessel's official records, making false entries in the oil record book, including a misstatement, that the bilge oil and sludge had been incinerated.
Investigators attributed "intent to conceal" the dumping from Coast Guard authorities. to ensure all of its ships comply with maritime environmental rules, and that the company's employees, including ship crews, are properly trained in preventing maritime pollution.
Sentencing involved federal fines: $1.2 million for the corporation, $2000 to the Chief Engineer. The Defendant was further required to implement an Environmental Compliance Plan. A third party was appointed to monitor the Defendant's compliance, reporting to the court over the three years of probation.
Federal Fines: $1,102,000; Community Service Payment: $100,000; Probation: 36 months
See last week's CrimeBox here, "This Chicago wind turbine parts manufacturer missed the point of renewable energy, admits 300 harmful discharges in violation of CWA for $1.5 million fine".
CrimeBox briefs are compiled from EPA Criminal Enforcement records.
|
|
|
|
All rights reserved 2026 - WTLA - This material may not be reproduced in whole or in part and may not be distributed,
publicly performed, proxy cached or otherwise used, except with express permission.
|
| 