NZ fishing company found guilty of polluting waters

Sanford's been found guilty of six of the seven counts they faced after oil was dumped near American Samoa.

A jury in the US has found the New Zealand fishing company and primary chief engineer James Pogue guilty of charges relating to dumping oil in waters near American Samoa and then trying to cover it up.

Sanford could be stung with fines of up to US$3 million while Pogue may be sentenced to 26 years in prison.

One of the parties who brought the prosecution was the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.

Ronald C. Machen Junior says the prosecution demonstrates its commitment to protect precious natural resources as well as holding the company and senior staff member accountable.

The guilty verdicts against the New Zealand fishing company were returned by a jury in the US Federal District Court in Washington DC following a two week trial.

The charges were filed in January this year and involved conspiracy, false record keeping in respect to oil waste management on the vessel San Nikunau and one count involving a discharge of oil into the water.

Each count carries a maximum penalty of US$500,000.

Sentencing has been set down for November 16.

Photo: Sanford Fishing (Getty Images)