Endicott Man Accused of Damaging Flood Control Levees

State investigators say a man caused thousands of dollars in damage to Binghamton flood control levees as he searched for antique bottles to sell online.

Authorities say 24-year-old Shayne Potter of Endicott has been charged with criminal mischief and disturbing the banks of a protected stream without a permit.

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Potter is accused of excavating nearly 90 cubic yards of soil from flood control levees along the Susquehanna River.

Officials say the digging caused damage estimated at $7,385. They say he was looking for old bottles and other artifacts to sell.

A DEC news release said the illegal excavations put Binghamton residents and property at risk "should the levees fail during a flood event."

Potter was arraigned in Binghamton city court. A trial date has not been scheduled.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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