HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. (CW44 News At 10) – A Plant City man arrested after illegally spilling oil that caused thousands of dollars in damage to Plant City wetlands.

Photo credits: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Omar Hernandez, 33, was arrested by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office after an investigation was held with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

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The DEP investigated the incident, which occurred over a period of time in April 2021 on the 4000 block of Cooper Road. After the DEP tested the substance, he verified that it was oil.

“We must all do our part to take care of our environment for ourselves and for generations to come,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said.

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According to reports, the large landfill was about 80 feet long and 12 feet wide. As a result of the spill, fish, vegetation and wildlife were all affected in the immediate area.

The oil spill is estimated to cost over $ 10,000 in damage. Due to the size of the landfill, DEP requested an emergency clean-up.

Oil spill… Photo credits: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.

Hernandez faces a felony charge of causing pollution that harms or harms human health or well-being.

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Used oil can be safely disposed of at most auto service facilities or auto parts stores. It should be placed in a plastic or metal container and tightly closed.