Attorney General's News Release

November 3, 2004

Attorney General Nixon charges Greene County man with polluting Ozark streams

Springfield, Mo. —Attorney General Jay Nixon filed criminal charges today in Greene County Circuit Court against a Springfield man who allegedly dumped 50,000 gallons of spoiled molasses that polluted freshwater springs in northwest Greene County.

The complaint alleges that Stephen Lindsey violated Missouri's Clean Water Law by unlawfully discharging a water contaminant from a point source, a misdemeanor. If convicted, Lindsey could face a fine of up to $25,000 for each day of the violation and up to one year in jail.

"The waterways of the Ozarks are renowned for their beauty and purity. Careless dumping into those waters can cause irreparable harm," Nixon said. "If we are to preserve the natural beauty of our state, protect our drinking water, and protect those businesses dependent on the tourist trade, we must be vigilant in enforcing our environmental laws."

On July 10, 2004, a landowner about two miles from Lindsey's property contacted the state Department of Natural Resources after he noticed that two freshwater springs located on his property were discharging reddish-brown water, killing hundreds of fish in his ponds. The spring water eventually runs into nearby Clear Creek.

Investigators discovered that Purina Mills in Springfield had hired Lindsey's company, German Septic Service, to dispose of 50,000 gallons of spoiled molasses. It is alleged that instead of taking the molasses to a treatment facility, Lindsey dumped it into a sinkhole that is geologically connected to the springs.

"Missouri's clean water law is there for a reason -- to protect the health and safety of Missouri residents of today, and preserving something to pass along to Missourians of the future," Nixon said. "Neglecting our environment would mean forsaking a trust passed along for generations."

The charge against the defendant is merely an accusation. As in all criminal cases, the defendant is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818