Attorney General's News Release

May 24, 2011

Attorney General Koster sues Springfield man for hazardous waste violations

Springfield, Mo. – Attorney General Chris Koster has filed suit against Don Creek, of Springfield, for violating the state’s Hazardous Waste Management Law.

Koster said Creek owns and operates an automotive repair business in Springfield that generates large quantities of toxic hazardous waste. He said a Department of Natural Resources’ inspection found numerous violations of the law, including operating a hazardous storage facility without a permit; failure to properly inspect and maintain the facility; failure to train employees in the proper handling of hazardous waste; and improper storage and containment. Improperly stored hazardous waste is more likely to escape into the environment.

Koster is asking the court to issue an injunction prohibiting the Creek from further violations of the Hazardous Waste Management Law; assess a civil penalty up to $10,000 per day per violation; and require Creek to pay all court costs.

“Taking care of our environment is a responsibility we all share,” Koster said. “This office takes that responsibility seriously and will continue to vigorously enforce the laws governing the use of our natural resources.”