Default Judgment Of $3,000 Entered Against Tony J. Popp For Septage Treatment Violations

Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen announced today that the Wisconsin Department of Justice has obtained a judgment against Tony J. Popp for servicing septic systems without a license.

In 2007, Dane County Circuit Court Judge Maryann Sumi entered judgment against Popp for eight types of violations, including landspreading without a valid certification, spreading waste on unapproved lands, failing to file mandatory reports, and failing to make landspreading records available to Department of Natural Resources staff.

DNR subsequently revoked Mr. Popp's license, but Mr. Popp continued to service septic systems.  The Department of Justice filed suit at the request of the DNR, Mr. Popp failed to respond to the suit.  Green County Circuit Court Judge James R. Beer granted the State's motion for default judgment and ordered Mr. Popp to pay $3,000 in forfeitures, court fees, and costs.

The DNR licenses septage haulers and regulates the disposal of septic tank waste.  Licensure and certification requirements are aimed at ensuring that persons entrusted with the disposal of human waste are qualified to do so.  DNR regulations related to the disposal of septage seek to protect public health from unsanitary and unhealthful practices, as well as to protect state surface waters and groundwater from contamination.  The Department of Justice will continue to work with the DNR to ensure that only licensed and qualified people who comply with state laws are permitted to service septic systems.

Assistant Attorney General Diane L. Milligan represented the state.