WBRZ - Baton Rouge

Investigators within the Criminal Investigation Division of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality have arrested a LaSalle Parish man for illegal dumping of restaurant grease and used cooking oil into state waterways.

Karl W. Doughty, of Olla, allegedly intentionally dumped grease and cooking oil from his restaurant into state waterways. Doughty is the owner of Rhinehart Roadhouse Restaurant.

Investigators with DEQ observed a trench containing grease and cooking oil flowing from an open pit at the restaurant into a roadside ditch.

If convicted, Doughty faces up to 3 years in prison, and a fine up to $50,000.

Anyone with knowledge of any spills, releases, odors, fish kills, open burning, waste tires and any other types of environmental incidents may contact the department at 225-219-3640 or Toll Free 1-888-763-5424.