(Dallas Co) A Des Moines man has been arrested for deliberately releasing diesel from a storage tank into farmland near Little Walnut Creek in Dallas County.
The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office responded to a criminal mischief report at 27099 U Avenue at approximately 1:41 a.m. on May 3. Investigators determined that a suspect had gained unauthorized access to an above-ground diesel fuel tank and intentionally emptied its contents onto the property.
The estimated loss of fuel is valued at over $10,000, and environmental cleanup costs are projected to exceed $100,000.
Following a joint investigation utilizing surveillance footage and witness statements, authorities identified the suspect as Aaron Wayne Peek, 36, of Des Moines. Peek, a former employee of the farming operation, was arrested on May 6 and charged with First-Degree Theft, First-Degree Criminal Mischief, and Trespassing.
The Dallas County Emergency Management Agency, the Iowa DNR, and the property owner are collaborating with local and state agencies to contain and remediate the environmental impact of the spill.
