HACKENSACK, N.J. — They’re accused of smuggling chemicals, illegally disposing of hazardous wastes and discharging pollutants into the air and water — and now they’re on the “wanted” list.
Their photos appear on a new federal Environmental Protection Agency website. The public is being asked to check the site and contact the agency if any of the mug shots look familiar. The website features pictures, biographical details and case histories of 23 fugitives sought by the EPA’s criminal-investigation unit.
Armed officers from that unit have full law-enforcement powers to investigate environmental cases that go beyond regulatory infractions and criminal activity.
“We want more eyes out there,” said agency spokesman Dave Ryan, explaining the decision to create the list at .
The fugitives on the list have yet to be prosecuted for environmental violations and some are believed to have fled the country.
Anyone who encounters a fugitive should notify the EPA by submitting the “Report a Fugitive” form on the website, or contact local police.
