A few weeks ago, just before the holidays, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency investigators busted a Washington State pumping company owner for allegedly dumping septic waste into city sewers. A newspaper report of the arrest implied that the pumper could have dumped hundreds of thousands of gallons of waste illegally over several years:
I’m not writing this blog to specifically rake this pumping contractor over the coals. While it appears there is solid evidence, including videotape and EPA surveillance of the purported offenses, he has yet to be convicted. What I would like to point out, however, is the raft of damning public comments surrounding the arrest as published on the newspaper’s website.
Published along with the news story is a list of comments about the allegations and the pumper himself. Local residents quickly chimed in with their criticism of the pumper as well as the EPA for going after him. Words like “crook’’ and “stealing’’ are thrown around casually in the 36 comments you can see today.
Regardless of the outcome of this case, this pumper’s reputation is likely irretrievably damaged. The court of public opinion can issue harsh penalties. The vast majority of pumpers are upstanding professionals, and to see a story like this makes me cringe. Though it’s not fair, it reflects poorly on the industry at some level.
I want to know what you think. Post your comments right here or send me an email at editor@pumper.com.
