What might be a reason for a POTW to file criminal actions?

A publicly owned treatment works (POTW) may file criminal actions primarily in cases of serious violations because such actions are necessary to ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations. Serious violations can pose significant risks to public health and the environment, including pollution, public safety hazards, and breaches of water quality standards. By pursuing criminal actions, the POTW is able to hold offenders accountable, deter future violations, and emphasize the seriousness of environmental protection.

This level of enforcement is typically reserved for the most egregious breaches of law, where uncorrected actions have the potential to cause severe harm or where the offender has shown a willful disregard for regulatory compliance. Filing criminal actions sends a strong message about the importance of adhering to environmental regulations and the consequences of failing to do so. Consequently, addressing serious violations through legal avenues helps maintain the integrity of water treatment processes and protects community health.