Dennis Caputo as Consulting Expert Environmental Criminal Investigations

Case 1: Grand Jury investigation of Proler International Corporation

The Justice Department had convened a grand jury to investigate possible criminal violations of RCRA by Proler International Corp., one of its officers, a general manager and a plant manager.  The Justice Department was alleging improper disposal of hazardous wastes in the US and Mexico.

A former employee contacted the EPA alleging illegal actions by the company by improperly “dumping” of hazardous wastes in the deserts of West Texas and Northern Mexico.  Elements of the FBI, EPA, Department of Justice and federal marshals raided a company plant to collect evidence and interview employees.

Counsel for the company retained Mr. Caputo to assist in the defense of the company and the individuals, conduct an investigation into what actions had taken place, review the applicable state and federal regulations and participate in negotiations with the EPA and Justice Department.  Working with counsel, Mr. Caputo

• Interviewed employees and consultants used by the company,
• Evaluated the manufacturing process to identify waste and byproduct streams,
• Characterized each of the waste and byproduct streams,
• Sampled “hazardous wastes” allegedly sent to a municipal landfill,
• Compared the materials found in the municipal landfill to the manufacturing wastes,
• Inspected reuse and recycling facilities used by the company.

The Justice Department ultimately dropped the case against the company and all individuals.