Mustard Company Dingus Pays Price for Polluting River
A New Hampshire dingus is heading to prison after a long-running scheme to illegally dump polluted wastewater into a local river.
Authorities say Charles Santich, 60, owner of the Old Dutch Mustard Company in Greenville, was sentenced to 18 months behind bars. His company was also ordered to pay a $1.5 million fine for violating the Clean Water Act.
According to prosecutors, the company had a history of regulatory issues dating back decades, but things escalated when Santich allegedly came up with a plan to cut costs in a major way.
Instead of properly disposing of contaminated wastewater, investigators say Santich had an underground pipe installed to move the polluted water directly from the factory into the Souhegan River.
Here’s an AI recreation of what it might look like if it was a Guillermo Del Toro film.
Officials say the operation continued for six years.
Prosecutors also allege that employees were instructed to participate in the scheme or risk losing their jobs, adding another layer to the case.
To avoid detection, Santich reportedly submitted false documents to regulators to cover up the illegal activity.
Experts testified that the wastewater discharge caused environmental harm and likely contributed to a mercury fish consumption advisory in the area.
The court ultimately agreed, leading to both prison time and significant financial penalties.
Authorities say the case highlights the long-term impact of environmental violations and the consequences of attempting to bypass regulations.
The investigation has since concluded.
Fine. Add “Old Dutch Mustard” – to my DO NOT BUY list. French’s for life.
