Overview
The Justice Department has ceased criminal prosecutions against individuals who install "defeat devices" on diesel pickup trucks. These devices are known to improve the vehicles' speed and fuel efficiency. However, their use results in increased pollution from these modified vehicles.
Research Context
The source describes a policy shift within the Justice Department concerning environmental enforcement related to diesel vehicle modifications. Previously, installing these devices could lead to criminal charges. The current posture indicates a discontinuation of such prosecutions.
Findings
A key observation is the Justice Department's decision to discontinue criminal prosecutions for the installation of "defeat devices." These devices, when installed, are described as making diesel trucks faster and more efficient. Concurrently, their operation renders these trucks dirtier in terms of emissions. The scope of this change specifically pertains to individuals involved in the installation of these devices.
The information indicates that the Justice Department previously pursued criminal prosecutions in these cases. The current policy represents a change from that prior approach.
Why This Matters
This policy change by the Justice Department affects enforcement against practices that modify diesel trucks to increase performance while simultaneously augmenting emissions. It re-calibrates the legal risks associated with installing "defeat devices" on these vehicles.