HANOVER, Md. — Michel Osei, 48, of Hanover, pleaded guilty to charges related to the illegal dumping and abandonment of over 250,000 scrap tires at a site in Allegany County, the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office announced.
The case highlighted the collaborative efforts of local volunteer fire services, state agencies, and county officials to address the increasing fire hazards posed by the massive collection of tires. Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray emphasized the significant risks that non-compliant tire storage sites create for employees, the surrounding community, and first responders.
“This investigation is an excellent example of the strong partnerships between agencies,” Mowbray stated, commending the efforts of all involved. “Non-compliant tire collection sites pose a great fire danger to the employees, community, and our fire service first responders. Across our country, there have been examples of the conflagrations these facilities can create that underscore the true danger.”
Officials noted that the State Fire Marshal’s Office, in collaboration with other agencies, will continue working to mitigate fire risks and enforce regulations to prevent similar incidents. Mowbray added that the staff remains committed to ensuring that Maryland is a fire-safe place to live, work, and visit.
