Sinister Manufacturing Co, a tuning company based in Roseville, California, has been ordered to pay $1 million in fines and penalties after pleading guilty to selling products that allowed pickup truck owners to bypass their vehicles’ emissions control systems. The company sold “delete kits” and accompanying tunes that enabled trucks to run normally even after the emissions control systems had been removed. This violation of the federal Clean Air Act and tampering with diesel truck emissions control systems led to a dramatic increase in the release of pollutants, negatively impacting air quality and public health.
The guilty plea by Sinister Manufacturing Co highlights the importance of environmental laws that regulate diesel pollution. These laws are particularly crucial in safeguarding sensitive populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. U.S. Attorney Phil Talbert emphasized the commitment to vigorously prosecute those who prioritize profit over the well-being of the public and the environment.
According to reports, one-quarter of Sinister’s gross revenues were derived from the sale of delete products. Between October 2015 and July 2017, the company sold 39,792 defeat kits for trucks, with at least 35,960 kits disabling a truck’s exhaust gas recirculation systems. Sinister advised customers to remove these delete products temporarily to pass emissions tests and provided instructions on how to reinstall them afterward.
While Sinister occasionally marketed its delete products as intended for racing or off-road use, court documents revealed that the majority of its customers were diesel truck drivers who used these products on public roads rather than racetracks. This deliberate violation of regulations further exacerbated the negative impact on air quality and public health.
The consequences for Sinister Manufacturing Co include a $500,000 criminal fine and $500,000 in civil penalties. Additionally, the company is prohibited from producing or selling any devices that bypass emissions control systems. It is also required to destroy any remaining inventory of these products.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to emissions control regulations and the serious consequences for those who violate them. The harmful effects of increased pollutant release on air quality and public health cannot be understated. By holding companies accountable for their actions, authorities aim to protect vulnerable populations and ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for all.
The fine imposed on Sinister Manufacturing Co should serve as a deterrent to other companies that may consider engaging in similar activities. It sends a clear message that violating emissions control regulations will not be tolerated, and those found guilty will face significant penalties.
In conclusion, Sinister Manufacturing Co’s guilty plea and subsequent fines highlight the detrimental impact of bypassing emissions control systems in pickup trucks. The company’s sale of delete kits and accompanying tunes not only violated the federal Clean Air Act but also compromised air quality and public health. By imposing substantial fines and penalties, authorities aim to deter other companies from engaging in similar activities and protect the well-being of the public and the environment.