Another agricultural waste spill occurred in Sampson County on Friday.
According to Clinton Police Chief Adrian Mathews, both the city’s police and fire departments responded to reports of a spill near the intersection of US 421 and North Boulevard on Friday morning.
When emergency personnel arrived on the scene, they found clear evidence of a spill. “After gathering some video footage of the suspect vehicle, officers were able to locate the truck at the GFL landfill in Sampson County,” Mathews reported.
Investigators identified the driver as Starky Beato of J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc., a publicly traded company. Beato was issued a criminal citation for failing to secure the load, unintentional littering, and duty to stop after an animal waste spill.
Mathews said that authorities also reached out to Lloyd Black, J.B. Hunt’s director of strategic accounts ag services, but had received no response as of press time.
“The Clinton Police Department emphasizes its commitment to holding individuals accountable for littering and unsafe practices on public roadways,” Mathews stated. “Equally important is ensuring that the hauling of animal waste is conducted in a safe and responsible manner. Both accountability and safety are essential to protecting our community and environment.”
Those with any information about the incident are encouraged to contact the Clinton Police Department at 910-592-3105. They may also provide anonymous information through the police department’s tip service by texting 847411, beginning their message with “tipcpd.”