District attorney’s from Yolo and Sierra County settle environmental protection lawsuit
Yolo and Sierra County district attorneys secured a $1.16 million settlement against gas station owners for environmental law violations.Summary
Yolo County Superior Court Judge Samuel McAdam approved a settlement requiring Sherali Davis LLC, Sherali Gas Company, Inc., and Ali, Habiba, and Shanawas Sherali to pay $1.16 million in penalties and costs for violating environmental laws at three gas stations in Yolo and Sierra Counties. The violations involved underground storage tanks (USTs) and the potential for contaminating water sources, as even small leaks can cause significant damage. As part of the settlement, the defendants are subject to a permanent statewide injunction, must employ a compliance manager, and will pay $1,000,000 in civil penalties and $160,000 in investigative costs. They have also reopened the Downieville Gas Mart, upgrading to double-walled USTs for improved environmental protection.
Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig and Sierra County District Attorney Sandra A. Groven emphasized the importance of protecting freshwater resources and ensuring fair business practices. They thanked the Environmental Health Divisions of both counties and the California State Water Resources Control Board for their assistance.
The case was supported by the Circuit Prosecutor Project, a grant-funded initiative aimed at enforcing environmental laws in rural counties and protecting natural resources from harm caused by leaking USTs. The Sherali defendants cooperated with the investigation and pledged to comply with environmental regulations in the future.
(Source：Daily Democrat)