Dentist charged with dumping medical waste

TRENTON, N.J., Sept. 5 (UPI) -- A dentist practicing in the Philadelphia suburbs has been charged with dumping medical waste near his summer home on the Jersey Shore.

Dr. Thomas "Tim" McFarlane allegedly dumped a bag of waste Aug. 22 from a boat in the Townsend Inlet in Avalon, N.J., The Philadelphia Inquirer reported. Beaches were closed when more than 250 used syringes and 180 cotton swabs washed ashore.

McFarland, who was charged late Thursday, could face five years in prison and heavy fines if he is convicted.

"It's clear to us that the people of New Jersey and all those who enjoy the shore can be assured it was an intentional act and not a testament to unhealthy water," said state Attorney General Anne Milgram.

Investigators were able to trace the debris because it included a wrapper with a manufacturing date from a dental drill bit made by Microcopy Dental in Georgia.