The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) issued a cease-and-desist order against Puerto Rico's Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA), alleging the agency conducted unauthorized dredging and fill deposit work at the mouth of the Río Grande de Loíza. In a letter dated July 8 addressed to DRNA Secretary Waldemar Quiles, Col.
Brandon L. Bowman of the Army Corps stated the federal agency has reason to believe DRNA carried out activities within navigable U.S. waters without the required Department of the Army permit, violating the Clean Water Act and the Rivers and Harbors Act. The order instructs DRNA to immediately stop any dredging, excavation, or fill deposit activity in the area until the case is resolved.
USACE warned that the alleged violations could result in civil fines of up to $68,446 per day of infraction, plus criminal penalties under the Clean Water Act reaching $50,000 per day and possible prison time. Violations of the Rivers and Harbors Act could bring fines of up to $100,000 for individuals and $200,000 for corporations, along with up to one year in prison.