Guilty Plea in 2022 Oil Dumping Case Off New Orleans

The U.S. Department of Justice recently filed the terms of a settlement related to a 2022 oil dumping case off New Orleans. The case involved Eagle Ship Management and the Chief Engineer of the vessel, resulting in a guilty plea and sentencing to jail. The incident came to light when a crewmember reported it on social media, leading to retaliation and attempts to conceal the MARPOL violation.

As part of the settlement, Eagle Ship Management agreed to pay a criminal fine of $1,750,000 and serve a four-year probation term. The plea agreement is pending court approval, with sentencing scheduled for October 16.

The Incident

The Gannet Bulker, a 57,800 dwt vessel registered in the Marshall Islands, was at an anchorage near the Southwest Passage of the Port of New Orleans in March 2021. An engine room repair to address clean ballast water discharge issues led to flooding. Chief Engineer Kirill Kompanietes and a subordinate engineer proceeded to dump oily bilge water overboard without using the required equipment while the ship was anchored near the Southwest Passage off the Louisiana coast.

A total of 10,300 gallons of oily discharge was involved in the incident, prompting an investigation by the Coast Guard following a crew member’s social media message on March 14, 2021. The case revealed obstructive acts, including retaliation against the whistleblower.

Guilty Pleas and Sentencing

Eagle Ship Management and Chief Engineer Kompanietes both pleaded guilty in separate cases. Kompanietes admitted to the illegal discharge of oil and obstructing justice. In a joint factual statement, he confessed to making false statements to the Coast Guard, destroying evidence, falsifying records, and directing subordinates to lie to investigators.

In addition to his guilty plea, Kompanietes was sentenced to a year and a day in prison for his role in the discharge and obstruction of justice. The company, Eagle Ship Management, faces a substantial fine and probation period as part of the settlement.

Conclusion

The guilty plea and sentencing in the 2022 oil dumping case off New Orleans highlight the importance of environmental compliance and transparency in the maritime industry. The repercussions of illegal discharges and obstructive actions serve as a reminder of the serious consequences for violating maritime laws and regulations.