Two New Jersey Men Arrested for Hazardous Waste Dumping

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News Summary

Two men from New Jersey were arrested for illegally dumping hazardous materials, including asbestos, at a former movie theater site in New Windsor.

Two New Jersey Men Arrested for Hazardous Waste Dumping

In a shocking turn of events, two men from New Jersey find themselves in legal trouble after being charged with the illegal dumping of hazardous materials, including the notorious asbestos. The illegal activity took place at the former Destinta Movie Theater lot in New Windsor, creating a stir in the community and drawing the attention of state authorities.

Investigation Unfolds

The investigation began in April 2024, spearheaded by the New Windsor Police Department with crucial cooperation from multiple state agencies, including the New York State Attorney General’s Office and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Detectives spent an intensive year gathering evidence to illuminate the full extent of the environmental violation.

On April 15, 2025, law enforcement officials executed their plan and arrested two individuals: Gary DiGiovanni, 61, hailing from Ringoes, and Dean Buncombe, 45, from Harrington Park. This duo faced serious charges linked to their reckless endangerment of both public health and the environment. Their illicit activities were uncovered at the site located at 215 Quassaick Ave, where an alarming discovery of hazardous substances, including the dangerous material known as asbestos, was made.

The Charges

Gary DiGiovanni is currently facing an extensive list of felony charges. These include offering a false instrument for filing, falsifying business records, forgery, criminal possession of a forged instrument, and criminal possession of a weapon. DiGiovanni remains in custody, anticipating his arraignment as the legal process unfolds.

Meanwhile, Dean Buncombe has been charged with offering a false instrument for filing and criminal possession of a forged instrument. Unlike his co-defendant, Buncombe received an appearance ticket for the New Windsor Town Court, indicating that he may have a slightly less severe path ahead in the court system compared to his accomplice. Still, both men await potential additional charges under the New York State Environmental Conservation Law.

Community and Official Response

New Windsor Town Supervisor Stephen Bedetti vehemently condemned the illegal dumping, labeling it as “reckless” and an undeniable threat to the environment and the community’s well-being. Reports indicate that approximately 30 truckloads of dirt containing hazardous materials were unearthed at the site, prompting serious concerns among local residents.

Following the investigation, extensive cleanup operations ensued to remove the contaminated materials from the site, a necessary step to mitigate the severe risks posed by the dumped substances. The area is expected to be redeveloped into apartments in the future; however, it currently lacks the necessary zoning approval for such a project.

The Law’s Stance

Police Chief Daniel Valeri expressed how deeply the department takes environmental crimes. The entire investigation involved coordinated efforts with the Department of Labor and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, reinforcing the commitment to uphold community safety and environmental integrity.

Interestingly enough, there was a noted surge of activity surrounding the theater in June 2024, leading up to the ultimate discovery of these illegal dumping practices. The seriousness of these allegations and the potential health risks associated with such hazardous waste cannot be overstated as the case continues to develop.

Looking Ahead

As the legal proceedings progress, the community remains vigilant and hopeful that justice will be served. The unfolding story emphasizes the critical need for environmental conservation and adherence to safety regulations, serving as a wake-up call for all regarding the importance of responsible waste management. The implications of such environmental violations can be both devastating and long-lasting, significantly impacting public health and the quality of living in affected areas.

Stay tuned for more developments as this case progresses through the legal system, and further actions by local and state authorities in response to environmental offenses come to light.