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Someone is dumping oil into Speedway's sewer system

Officials in Speedway are looking for the people responsible for dumping oil into the town's wastewater system.

SPEEDWAY, Ind. (WTHR) - Officials in Speedway are looking for the people responsible for dumping oil into the town's wastewater system.

Town officials say "large amounts of industrial oil" are being illegally dumped into the wastewater, putting a burden on their systems used to treat the water.

"This illegal activity is causing a significant financial burden to our town as well as safety concerns within our plant itself," said Mike Davis, assistant superintendent at Speedway Wastewater.

Officials said the microorganisms needed to break down waste so the water can be treated need oxygen to survive. The oil being poured into the water is breaking down the oxygen before it gets to the microorganisms. The town has been buying more oxygen to make up the difference, which they say is costing thousands of dollars each week.

Davis said the additional charge of the cleanup will be charged to those found to be responsible for dumping. Also, if it is found that a person or business is intentionally dumping oil into the wastewater system, criminal charges will be pursued.

The dumping is reportedly happening early in the morning during the weekend, possibly into a manhole in a residential or hidden area.

Anyone that sees suspicious activity or has information about the oil dumping is asked to call 911 or the Speedway Police Department.

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