ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Monday, November 25, 1996 TAG: 9611250172
SECTION: NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL PAGE: A-3 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: JACKSON, MISS.
SOURCE: Associated Press
Two unlicensed exterminators who sprayed toxic farm pesticides to rid hundreds of homes of roaches and bugs face federal charges of illegally using the chemicals, which can kill people when used indoors.
Paul F. Walls and Dock Eatman, both of Moss Point, have admitted spraying the pesticides in Gulf Coast homes, but said they did not realize the dangers.
The 61-year-old men were charged Friday with illegally using permethrin and methyl parathion, U.S. Attorney Brad Pigott said. They already face state misdemeanor charges of operating an unlicensed pest control service.
Neither man could be reached for comment.
They used the poisons to kill roaches and other pests in homes and businesses in southeast Mississippi. Both chemicals are intended for use in open fields.
Methyl parathion, which is used to kill cotton vermin, breaks down in sunlight, but can remain toxic indoors for years. The chemical attacks the central nervous system and is particularly dangerous to children - as little as a teaspoon can be lethal.
State officials have not confirmed any deaths linked to spraying, but are investigating the death of a child who died of a respiratory ailment after the child's home had been sprayed.
Officials have moved 44 families out of homes that need to be decontaminated and closed a restaurant, motel and six day-care centers.
Agriculture experts said methyl parathion is so potent that farmers must stay out of their fields for two days after using it.
Denise Wainwright and her family have been moved into a hotel until their mobile home in Gautier is decontaminated. She said Walls sprayed her home.
``I was throwing up and dizzy within three days after he sprayed,'' said Wainwright, who had initially blamed her illness on diabetes.
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