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WEST VIRGINIA RECORD

Monday, March 18, 2024

Environmental agency accuses tank owner of regulatory noncompliance

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BECKLEY – The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection is suing an Amigo business for allegedly failing to comply with environmental laws.

Scott G. Mandirola, director of the DEP’s Division of Water and Waste Management, filed a lawsuit April 14 in Raleigh Circuit Court against Richard Johnson, doing business as Wanna Stop Inc., alleging violations of the state’s Underground Storage Tank Act.


According to the complaint, Wanna Stop has a history dating back to 2009 of ignoring citations issued by the DEP regarding its underground storage tanks. For example, the suit claims, the agency cited Wanna Stop in 2009 and 2010 for non-payment of annual registration fees, now totaling $2,100. The DEP also alleges Wanna Stop and Johnson, its owner, have failed to correct problems and compensate third parties for bodily injuries or property damage caused by accidental releases of petroleum.

The DEP seeks recovery of all delinquent fees, permanent closure of the tank system in question, assessment of civil penalties and litigation costs. It is represented by attorney Jonathan C. Frame, associate counsel, Office of Legal Services, West Virginia DEP, in Charleston.

Raleigh Circuit Court Case number 16-C-227-H

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