They’re accused of negligence in the spilling of diesel fuel at a location in Frederick.
Baltimore, Md (KM) The Maryland Department of the Environment and the State Attorney General’s Office have announced a lawsuit has been filed against two area businesses. It claims that DM Bowman. Inc, and Day and Sons, Inc., are responsible for the release of diesel fuel in Frederick.
The suit claims on December 7th, 2021, MDE’s Oil Control Program received a report of the release diesel fuel into the ground at the DM Bowman site at 6816 English Muffin Way. The plaintiff says Day and Sons was doing some horizontal drilling on the land when it struck an underground diesel line. The amount of diesel released is estimated at 7,000 gallons , but that has yet to be determined. .
MDE claims Bowman failed to properly maintain inventory records and to investigate the unusual operating conditions in accordance with Maryland law, which resulted in the diesel release going unreported for days.
“The negligence displayed by these two companies demonstrate a complete disregard for our environment and the well-being of our communities,” says Attorney General Anthony Brown, in a statement. “Their actions will not go unanswered. I am committed to holding these businesses accountable for their violations and ensuring that they take action to repair and restore the integrity of our natural resources. Marylanders deserve nothing less.”:
Under the lawsuit, MDE is asking the court to require the defendants to mediate the damage to the land and nearby waters, and comply with any conditions imposed by the Department to protect public health. Civil penalties are also being sought for the violations of Maryland’s environmental laws.
“The Maryland Department of the Environment is committed to a renewed focus on enforcement,” said MDE Secretary Serena Mcllwain, in a statement. “We expect businesses to operate responsibly; and when they don’t MDE will hold them accountable.”
By Kevin McManus