Barrington Pools accused of illegally dumping hazardous chemicals

A South Barrington-area swimming pool and supply business accused of illegally dumping a hazardous chemical used to clean pool filters has been indicted by a Cook County grand jury.

Barrington Pools Inc. owners Dale Overson, 66, of Deer Park, and Louise Donahue, 62, of West Dundee are charged with criminal disposal of hazardous waste, according to a news release from Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan's office.

The Class 3 felony carries a possible prison sentence of two to five years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $250,000 for each day in violation. Barrington Pools is also charged in the case.

According to the release, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency acted on an anonymous tip and in July inspected the site, located on Route 59 north of Interstate 90. Samples taken at the business revealed evidence that muriatic acid - a hazardous waste - was illegally disposed of at the business.

"At this time there doesn't appear to be a health risk, but an investigation is ongoing," Illinois Attorney General Deputy Press Secretary Scott Mulford said Friday.

He added that he could say no more about the exact nature or location of the muriatic acid contamination.

"This blatant disregard of the laws that protect people and the environment from hazardous materials cannot be tolerated," Madigan said in a release.

According to its website, Barrington Pools has designed, built, renovated and maintained residential outdoor swimming pools since 1973.

The U.S. EPA Criminal Investigations Division conducted the investigation leading to the indictments.

An arraignment is scheduled for Oct. 7.