Chesapeake Energy Fined $600K For EPA Violations

Chesapeake Energy is facing some trouble from the EPA. The agency handed down one of the stiffest penalties ever for a gas drilling operation to "Chesapeake Appalachia," a subsidiary of Chesapeake Energy.

Chesapeake admitted to dumping 60 tons of crushed stone and gravel into a creek in West Virginia. The company is facing a $600,000 fine and will be on probation for two years.

"We understand by talking to our counterparts at the EPA that this is one of the most severe penalties ever imposed in a case like this. And so, I think it sends a strong message that we do have our eyes and ears open with regards to all the drilling activity that's occurring in this area," said U.S. Attorney, William Ihlenfeld.

Chesapeake admitted to dumping 60 tons of crushed stone and gravel into the creek to create easier access to a drilling site.