LEELANAU COUNTY, Mich., (WPBN/WGTU) — A 71-year-old Leelanau County man faces a criminal charge after allegedly dredging and filling up to 2 acres of protected wetlands without a permit, despite repeated warnings from state environmental officials.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced Tuesday that Vincent Tomczak, of Leland Township, was arraigned in 86th District Court on one count of filling, draining or dredging a wetland without a permit.
According to Nessel’s office, Tomczak allegedly began dredging and filling between 1 and 2 acres of protected wetlands in 2023.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) sent multiple violation notices and restoration orders, contacted Tomczak directly and visited the property several times.
Investigators also executed a search warrant at the property in 2024.
Despite being notified that permits were required and that the wetlands needed to be restored, prosecutors allege Tomczak made no efforts to restore the property.
The attorney general’s office said the alleged violations continued even after state officials issued notices.
“Michigan protects its wetlands with strict regulations and, when necessary, criminal penalties,” Nessel said. “These protections help maintain a healthy environment and defend fragile and sometimes irreplaceable ecosystems.”
The investigation was conducted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division’s Environmental Investigation Section.
The Michigan Attorney General’s Environmental Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Tomczak’s next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 27, 2027, for a pretrial conference in 86th District Court.