Tonawanda Coke Raided by Federal Agents

By WKBW Directors

July 9, 2010 Updated Dec 18, 2009 at 7:03 PM EST

TONAWANDA, NY (WKBW) -- An official with the Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed with Eyewitness News that several agencies executed a search warrant at Tonawanda Coke on River Road.

The raid occurred Thursday morning and we're told agents spent much of the day searching the plant. The exact reason for the search warrant is unknown .

The U.S. Attorney's office was the lead organization but were assisted by the Department of Environmental Conservation, The E.P.A., and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Tonawanda Coke has come under heavy scrutiny since a D.E.C. Report found the plant was emitting high levels of benzene into the air.

Channel 7 has been following this story for more than a year, following up on complaints from several residents who live near the plant. Many claim they've fallen ill from the air they breathe and have long pointed the finger at Tonawanda Coke.

Tune in to Eyewitness News at 5pm and 6pm for the latest on this developing story.

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