Probation given to man convicted of dumped drilling wastewater into Lawrence Co. streams

WAYNESBURG, Pa. (AP) — A man convicted of dumping millions of gallons of natural gas drilling wastewater into local streams, including waterways in Lawrence County, has received probation for his crimes.

A Greene County judge on Friday placed Robert Allan Shipman on probation and ordered him to pay more than $257,000 in restitution.

Shipman had owned a firm that disposed of wastewater containing natural gas drilling byproducts, sewage sludge and restaurant grease.

Prosecutors say he directed his drivers to dump the water illegally in Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland counties from 2003 to 2009.

Shipman pleaded guilty in February to illegal dumping charges. He also admitted to theft charges for taking money from customers who believed their waste was being properly handled.

The judge banned Shipman from working in the industry again.