3 sentenced, fined in illegal dumping

LISBON -- A judge levied fines and community service penalties against three people for illegal dumping.
Judge David Tobin of Columbiana County Common Pleas Court sentenced Edward Sprouse of Lisbon and Elkton residents Michael and Donna Welsh to 200 hours of community service and five years of probation, according to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.
Additionally, Sprouse must pay 2,500 in restitution to Ohio EPA and court costs and has until June 1 to clean up the dump site, located near Pine Hollow and Fairmont roads, according to the agency.
The Welshes each must pay 750 to the Ohio EPA, 500 to the state attorney general's office and court costs, according to Ohio EPA.
A citizen reported the dumping in 2005, and the Ohio EPA and attorney general's office subsequently investigated. Ohio EPA spokesman Mike Settles, citing reports compiled during the investigation, said the defendants admitted dumping two pickup-truck loads of debris, plus car parts and 40-50 tires on the property without permission. The Welshes accepted money from a magazine company to dispose of computers, magazines and other solid waste, according to Ohio EPA.
Indictments were issued in June, and the three pleaded guilty to felony open dumping in late November, according to court documents. Any violations to probation terms may result in two-year prison terms and 10,000 fines, according to Ohio EPA.