The property owners of a lot on Silver Lake near Rehoboth Beach have been fined $7,500 for illegally dumping dozens of truck loads of dirt on the property late last year and earlier this year.

In early February, neighbors of Silver Lake and members of Save Our Lakes Alliance3 raised concerns about dozens of loads of dirt being dumped on the parcel. A short time later, the county issued a notice of violation to the property owner for dumping an unknown amount of fill along the southwestern edge of the lake between Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach.

During a court hearing Oct. 2, the property owners pleaded no contest and agreed to pay a $7,500 fine.

According to Sussex County property records, the lot is owned by Anthony F. Johnson Crivella and trust set up in the name of Constance R. Catts. An application to the Sussex Conservation District for a sediment and stormwater permit submitted in July 2023 says Crivella and Rusty Catts are the owners. 

When reached for comment, Crivella said he was going to talk with his partner before offering one. He did provide a comment before the print deadline Oct. 10.

Rick Hardy, SOLA3 treasurer, said the organization is pleased that the remaining dirt has been removed. This remains a critical environmental issue for Silver Lake, he said, and SOLA3 is grateful to the neighbors who live along Silver Lake, Sussex County officials and state officials who remained vigilant during the process.

“Hopefully, nature will begin to repair this fragile habitat for the wildlife and provide protection of the water quality for Silver Lake,” said Hardy.

In an email Oct. 9, Chip Guy, county spokesperson, said the county is satisfied with the result.