INTEGRATING ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROBLEMS: EXPLORING RELATIONSHIPS OF LEAD (Pb) IN SOIL, DRINKING WATER AND ROAD SEDIMENT IN THE CITY OF HAMILTON, OHIO

Lead (Pb) is well-recognized as a highly toxic, anthropogenic environmental pollutant globally. Pb as a pollutant is found in soil, water, air, and food as well as less traditional media such as road sediments and paints. All of these media pose significant health risks when even trace amounts of Pb are present. Pb often impacts lower-income communities at a higher rate than middle and higher-income areas. Extensive research has shown a strong correlation between adverse behavior effects and Pb pollution. The behaviors may include increased violence and higher incarceration rates which are attributed to the toxicity of Pb. Pb toxicity can result in, but is not limited to, lowered IQ, decline in cognitive function, and lessened impulse control. In return, these behavioral effects are or may be associated with criminal behavior. There is evidence that broadly suggests that increasing concentrations of Pb correlates to increasing rates of violence and incarceration. The city of Hamilton, Ohio is an area recognized for comparatively high rates of crime and is unique in that there are multiple investigations and sources of data regarding Pb in the environment. Previous and current research indicates Pb has a high concentration and is of primary concern in some areas of the city. Road sediment levels in low-income housing dominated by African Americans are far exceeding mean concentrations in comparison to geogenic backgrounds. Research has suggested that lead chromate (PbCrO4), historically used in yellow road paint contributes to the high levels of Pb in road sediment, however, this is not exclusive. Soil and some analyses of drinking water have elevated Pb concentrations which further exacerbates the health concerns for the community. While the elevated levels have been consistently observed, societal impacts associated with Pb in Hamilton have never been explored. This research is the first to attempt an analysis of Pb concentrations in environmental media and associations with criminal justice data. Such work is foundational to have a better understanding and allow for the formation of transformational strategies to effectively mitigate Pb pollution and reduce its impact on both the environment and society in the city of Hamilton.