Louisiana Company Fined for Illegal Dumping in Gulf

Baton Rouge, LA (Newsradio 92.3) -- A Louisiana company had pleaded guilty to illegally dumping oily waste into the Gulf of Mexico. V. Ships Norway has been fined $2 million fine by the U.S. Department of Justice. The violation involved discharging waste from the Motor Tanker Swift Winchester between February and August 2022, with crew members attempting to hide their actions by maintaining false records. Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson condemned the practice, saying it poses serious health and environmental risks. An investigation revealed that oily waste was funneled directly into the sea, prompting an investigation by the U.S. Coast Guard. Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis said the illegal discharge poses a significant threat to waters and marine life -- and emphasized a commitment to enforcing environmental laws and holding violators accountable.