Fire Department Announces Arrests for Felony Environmental Violations

Published on June 09, 2026

Arlington, Va. – The Arlington County Office of the Fire Marshal has arrested two individuals following an investigation into the unlawful discharge of petroleum products into the County’s stormwater system.

Ahmad Adawi, 33, of Fairfax, Va., is charged with Violation of the Statewide Fire Prevention Code, Conspiracy to Discharge Oil into Waters, and Knowingly and Willfully Discharging Oil into Waters. Suhib Derbas, 31, of Alexandria, Va., is charged with Conspiracy to Discharge Oil into Waters and Knowingly and Willfully Discharging Oil into Waters. Their charges stem from the illegal dumping of substantial quantities of gasoline and motor oil into a storm drain.

The incident involved the intentional release of hazardous substances directly into storm water drains. The discharge of petroleum-based products into the storm drainage system constitutes a violation of Virginia environmental statutes and presents a significant risk to public health, safety, and the environment. Gasoline and oil are classified as hazardous materials and are strictly regulated due to their toxicity, flammability, and potential to cause widespread environmental degradation.

The Office of the Fire Marshal, acting within its authority to enforce applicable fire prevention, hazardous materials, and environmental protection laws, conducted this investigation in coordination with local and regional partner agencies. The suspects were taken into custody without incident and have since been released while awaiting further judicial proceedings.

"This enforcement action reflects our ongoing commitment to uphold the law and protect the public and environment from hazardous and unlawful conduct," said Matthew Cobb, Chief Fire Marshal. "The Office of the Fire Marshal, in coordination with our partner agencies, is engaged in a focused and sustained effort to identify, investigate, and prosecute individuals responsible for illegal dumping activities. These actions pose serious risks to public safety and environmental integrity, and they will not be tolerated in Arlington County."

The Arlington County Office of the Fire Marshal reminds all residents and businesses that the improper disposal of hazardous materials is a criminal offense. Individuals are required to utilize approved disposal methods and facilities for petroleum products and other regulated substances.

Anyone with information regarding illegal dumping or hazardous materials violations is encouraged to contact the Arlington County Office of the Fire Marshal.

Booking Photograph of Ahmad Adawi

Booking Photograph of Suhib Derbas