Four business owners are facing legal trouble after a federal grand jury indicted them for illegally bringing in diesel emissions defeat devices into the U.S. from Canada.
The charges: John and Joshua Owens, Kevin Dodd, and Philip Sweeney are accused of conspiracy, smuggling, and money laundering. Their companies, including Diesel Truck Products and Evo Tunes Inc., were involved in these activities, according to federal authorities.
- Between 2015 and 2023, over $33 million in defeat devices were illegally imported, primarily targeting diesel trucks.
- The operations generated more than $74 million from online sales across the country.
Behind the scheme: The Owens allegedly tried to cover their tracks by shutting down their original business and relaunching under a new name in the Cayman Islands after the EPA requested information about their activities.
What's at stake: These actions not only violate the Clean Air Act but potentially increase harmful emissions, impacting the environment and health of communities near highways, especially those sensitive to diesel exhaust.
The individuals are facing hefty potential sentences, including up to 20 years for smuggling, reported the Department of Justice.