NCJ Number
149782
Date Published
1993
Length
39 pages
Annotation
This report presents information and statistics on the Massachusetts Attorney General's criminal and civil prosecutions of environmental offenses.
Abstract
In 1991-1993, there were 19 criminal prosecutions of environmental offenses. These involved 39 defendants and yielded 16 convictions. Compared to previous years, this is double the pace of prosecution. The cases resulted in the ordering of approximately $750,000 in criminal fines and penalties. There is a trend toward the imposition of imprisonment for environmental offenses. During this same period, over 60 civil cases were brought, yielding approximately $8.5 million in penalties, cost recoveries, and other payments. The Massachusetts Attorney General's Office has worked with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the State Department of Environmental Protection to resolve Superfund cases. Approximately $3 million has been received by the State for asbestos abatement. In a description of new priorities, proposed environmental legislation is outlined, pollution-reduction efforts are described, and energy- oriented measures are reviewed.