ATTORNEY GENERAL J.B. VAN HOLLEN ANNOUNCES RESOLUTION OF OPEN BURNING CASE AGAINST PORTAGE COUNTY MAN

MADISON - Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen today announced the resolution of an enforcement action against Kevin Skinner, a Portage County man who was charged with repeatedly violating Wisconsin laws prohibiting open burning of solid waste.

As part of a settlement agreement, Skinner agreed to pay penalties and costs totaling $2,000 to resolve his liability for the violations alleged in the state's complaint.  He also agreed to place an advertisement in the Stevens Point Journal to help others learn that open burning of substances such as plastic is harmful and illegal.  The settlement was approved by Portage County Circuit Court Judge Thomas T. Fluguar earlier this month. 

"Open burning of plastics and other hazardous substances is illegal in Wisconsin," Van Hollen said.  "Open burning prohibitions and regulations are designed to protect the health and safety of Wisconsin citizens and our natural environment.  DOJ will continue to work with DNR to enforce this law."

The Department of Justice (DOJ) filed suit against Skinner on June 22, 2006, after a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) investigation.  The complaint alleged that Skinner unlawfully burned prohibited materials, including plastic silage bags, on several occasions.  Skinner admitted to these violations, and agreed to settle the case.

Assistant Attorney General Diane L. Milligan represented the state.