EDITOR’S NOTE: This story was originally published by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
COLUMBUS – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife was involved in an investigation that resulted in 73-year-old Mark Shepherd of Kenton being convicted in federal court Tuesday of violating the Clean Water Act by discharging pollutants and hazardous substances into waterways, killing thousands of fish in the Scioto River.
In April 2021, Shepherd, owner and operator of Cessna Transport Inc. and AG Bradley Inc., illegally discharged 7,000 gallons of an ammonia-containing substance into the Scioto River.
The substance came from Shepherd’s facilities. A fisherman in Hardin County reported fish deaths as a result of the pollutants emitted.
The Wildlife Department found that the discharge killed 43,094 fish, including smallmouth bass, flathead catfish, sunfish and minnows, with a value of $22,508.60.
In May 2024, the defendant pleaded guilty to violating the Clean Water Act. Shepherd was sentenced to 12 months probation, 150 hours of community service, a $5,000 fine, and a $25 special levy.
He was also ordered to pay the Division of Wildlife $22,508.60 in compensation for the aquatic animals killed.
This case was investigated by the ODNR Division of Wildlife, the Environmental Enforcement Unit of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The Division of Wildlife is committed to enforcing laws protecting Ohio’s wildlife. Public input and concern are an essential part of these enforcement efforts. Anyone who witnesses a wildlife violation in Ohio can call 1-800-POACHER (1-800-762-2437).
Reports are treated anonymously. Information that leads to a conviction for a wildlife crime may be punishable by a reward.
Ohio game wardens have statewide authority to enforce wildlife protection regulations and protect state lands, waterways and property. As state law enforcement officers, they contribute to public safety in their local areas and in Ohio’s natural environment.
In addition, they speak to hundreds of clubs and groups about conservation and wildlife programs, conduct fish and wildlife surveys, and provide technical advice and instruction on topics related to wildlife management, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor recreation activities.
