In Ohio, Mark Shepherd, aged 72, admitted guilt for causing harm to over 40,000 fish in the Scioto River.
He confessed to pouring hazardous substances into the water, leading to a devastating impact on the local aquatic life.
According to a press release issued by the US Department of Justice, the incident occurred on April 17, 2021, near Kenton, when Shepherd polluted the Ohio River by dumping around 7,000 gallons of wastewater filled with pollutants and hazardous materials.
This violation of the Clean Water Act resulted in one of the largest Ohio fish kills in recent history.
The polluted Ohio River faced severe consequences due to Shepherd's actions, highlighting the importance of protecting our waterways from harmful practices.
According to court records, Shepherd was accused of carelessly releasing 7,000 gallons of wastewater, which carried ammonia, into the Kenton river.
These pollutants originated from two of Shepherd's businesses, one of which focuses on transporting dangerous substances, as stated on its website.
The Ohio Attorney General, Dave Yost, emphasized the importance of responsible business practices, stating, "There's a right way and a wrong way to do business."
He underscored the consequences of polluting Ohio's natural resources, mentioning the polluted Ohio River and the detrimental effects on Ohio fish kills.
Yost expressed gratitude towards collaborative efforts to preserve the cleanliness of the state's land, water, and air.
In Hardin County, a fisherman's discovery of dead fish alerted authorities to the severity of the situation.
Shepherd's alleged dumping, suspected to have occurred nearly 20 miles upstream, polluted the Ohio River.
Following investigations by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, it was determined that a staggering 43,094 Ohio fish were killed.
The value of these losses, estimated at around $22,500, highlights the ecological and economic impact of the pollution on the region's aquatic ecosystem.
Rebecca C. Lutzko, the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, emphasized the significance of the Scioto River as a vital habitat for diverse wildlife spanning over 230 miles within Ohio and a valuable community asset.
Lutzko stressed the consequences of harming such environments, particularly in light of the polluted Ohio River and the devastating impact on Ohio fish kills.
She affirmed that individuals who unlawfully discharge harmful substances into the district's waterways will be prosecuted.
Shepherd's sentencing, slated for August 12, 2024, marks a significant step toward holding those responsible for endangering Ohio's natural resources accountable.