"With Huge Coal Ash Fines, Justice Dept. Puts Industry on Notice"

"In contrast to weak EPA regulations, recent ruling takes a strong stand on mishandling of coal ash by utility giant Duke Energy."

"The U.S. Justice Department's recent prosecution of three Duke Energy subsidiaries for improper handling of toxic coal ash marked the most significant federal crackdown on coal ash in history and sends a clear signal to other operators that they could face criminal charges if there's an ash spill or major damage, experts say.

The plea agreement included a $102 million fine for the 2014 Dan River coal ash spill and other criminal violations of the Clean Water Act. It also requires the companies to make $3.4 billion available for cleanup costs and issue public apologies in newspapers. In addition, it places 18 Duke facilities under a court-ordered environmental compliance program.

The Department of Justice didn't hold back, said Vermont Law School professor Patrick Parenteau. 'They brought down the biggest utility in the country...It should terrify other utilities. If Duke's not safe, nobody's safe.'"

Lisa Song reports for InsideClimate News May 21, 2015.