Eurobulk, Greek Shipping Company, Sentenced for Violating Pollution Laws

A Greek shipping company, Eurobulk, owned by the Pittas family, has recently pleaded guilty to violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS) and falsifying records. The company’s wrongdoing occurred during a port call by the vessel Good Heart in Corpus Christi in April 2023.

As a result of their violations, Eurobulk has been ordered by US district judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos to pay a criminal fine of $1.125 million. Additionally, the company will serve a four-year term of probation and must adhere to an environmental compliance plan overseen by a monitor to ensure future compliance.

US attorney Nicholas Ganjei emphasized the importance of holding foreign corporations accountable for their actions, particularly when it comes to protecting the environment. Ganjei stated, “The environmental harm inflicted and falsification of records merit the sentence imposed today.”

Individual Sentencing

Christos Charitos, the former chief engineer of the Good Heart, also faced legal consequences for his role in the violations. Charitos, a Greek national aged 72, pleaded guilty to an APPS charge for failing to record discharges in the vessel’s Oil Record Book (ORB) and was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine.

Charitos was found to have ordered lower-ranking engine personnel to discharge oil-containing contents from the duct keel directly into the sea without using the Oily Water Separator (OWS) on two occasions in April 2023. He also instructed the second engineer to manipulate the OWS by making a fresh water connection, preventing accurate measurement of oil content in discharges.

Despite these illegal actions, no entries were made in the ORB as required by law, highlighting the deliberate attempts to conceal pollution activities.

Conclusion

The sentencing of Eurobulk and Christos Charitos serves as a reminder of the serious consequences that companies and individuals face for violating environmental laws and falsifying records. The case underscores the commitment of authorities to protect marine ecosystems and hold accountable those who disregard regulations.