"This has been a difficult decision for me, my family, and the entire company, and we have come to it reluctantly," said Mr. Duarte in a statement. "But given the risks posed by further trial on the government's request for up to $45 million in penalties, and the catastrophic impact that any significant fraction of that would have on our business, our hundreds of employees, our customers and suppliers, and all the members of my family, this was the best action I could take to protect those for whom I am responsible."
John Duarte to pay $1.1M fine for plowing wheat field without permit →
