Two business owners are facing charges for violating environmental protection laws by dumping waste in to the Connoquenessing Creek.
According to charging documents, Capital Environmental Risk Transfer Alliance (CERTA) Butler II, LLC agreed to a contract to demolish the old AK Steel Plant #2 in the fall of 2022.
52-year-old Kris Bamberger of Florida and 62-year-old Jacob Bamberger of Ohio own CERTA and police say they used hydraulic fluid to clear the surface area of the former plant.
But a leak led to chemicals going into a storm drain before eventually heading into the Connoquenessing Creek. Around 8.5 stream miles were contaminated.
The Bambergers have been charged by the Attorney General’s office with four counts related to unauthorized dumping of waste and pollutants, and four counts of unlawful contact.
Both men are awaiting a preliminary hearing.