Conviction in Exxon Valdez Spill Overturned
Alaska’s Court of Appeals on Friday reversed the conviction of Exxon Valdez captain Joseph Hazelwood in the nation’s largest oil spill, in which 11 million gallons of crude flowed into Prince William Sound in 1989.
A jury had convicted Hazelwood of negligent discharge of oil, a misdemeanor. He was sentenced to 90 days in jail and fined $1,000 for his role in the March 24, 1989, oil spill.
But Alaska Superior Court Judge Karl Johnstone suspended the penalties on condition that Hazelwood complete one year of probation, perform 1,000 hours of community work and pay $50,0000 in restitution.
Hazelwood had not been obligated to serve any of the penalties pending appeal.
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