The Delaware County District Attorney’s Office will now investigate environmental hazards that threaten public health and safety through a new environmental crime unit.

“Delaware County is the first in the region to create a unit in the DA’s office devoted to environmental crime. As part of our Smart on Crime strategy, we are coordinating our efforts across the county to improve accountability for environmental impacts,” stated Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer in a press release.

Assistant District Attorney Melissa Muroff is chief of the new unit. She brings decades of experience in environmental design and water management, according to the release.

“Too many Delaware County residents are struggling with environmental impacts stemming from illicit business practices and violations of state environmental laws.  We are going into these communities, and we are listening to residents,” Muroff said.

Muroff has worked with nongovernmental organizations, industry, labor organizations and community groups advocating for “progressive water policy and environmental justice.”

She also brings expertise in the health impacts of environmental exposures, the release stated.

Environmental crimes throughout the region will be included in the unit’s work load so it will be coordinating with neighboring counties and Harrisburg, as well as the county’s Department of Emergency Services, county council and other county offices.

Tim Boyce, director of Delaware County’s Emergency Services Department, feels the new unit will raise awareness about crimes like illegal dumping.

“The joint investigative capabilities of Emergency Services and the DA’s Office will enable us to be more proactive in addressing environmental threats before they become catastrophes,” he said.

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