In July 2020, Ramon Carabajo 53, of Corona, NY, had an inspection performed by the PA State Police at Weigh Station along Interstate 81. The inspection revealed several violations resulting in the tractor trailer, which was hauling garbage to the BRADS Landfill, being placed out of service and therefore unlawful to operate.
The mechanical violations found by Troopers were a defective rear axle, a malfunctioning and leaking brake hose and 2 out of 10 brakes were defective and not operable. The driver was advised to not operate the truck and trailer until all violations were fixed. Troopers then cleared the scene.
Upon returning a short time later they discovered the rig was gone. The troopers determined that the violations could not have been fixed in such a short period of time so they proceeded to the BRADS Landfill in Blythe Township and located the vehicle and driver. They conducted a second inspection and discovered the same violations as the initial inspection.
Carabajo was charged with summary violations for Unlawful Activities and Requirement For Commercial Drivers due to the defendant operating the truck and tractor while it was placed out of service by the State Police.
On October 23rd, 2020, during a summary trial, Carabajo was found guilty by Magisterial District Judge Plachko.
Plachko, calling it an intentional violation of the law that endangered other motorists and citizens, ordered Carabajo to pay fines and costs in the amount of $3,195.00. The maximum allowed under the law.