Michigan man accused in recycling scheme inspired by 'Seinfeld,' could go to prison
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The bottling plant of the Bavarian Weihenstephan brewery in Freising is pictured on April 3, 2014. A slump in consumption of more than a third in the last 25 years has hit Germany, Europe's biggest beer producer, triggering intense competition and price discounting. With young Germans turning to spirits and non-alcoholic fruit drinks, beer sales fell 2 percent last year alone. Traditional family breweries, also under pressure from double-digit rises in energy, glass and malt costs, are struggling, some dying. In a bid to move upmarket and charge more, some breweries are trying to tap into growing demand for speciality beer. Picture taken April 3, 2014. To match Feature GERMANY-BEER/ REUTERS/Michael Dalder (GERMANY - Tags: BUSINESS SOCIETY) - RTR3LS00 (REUTERS/Michael Dalder, File)
In a case not too far removed from a "Seinfeld" episode, cops in Michigan said a man tried to deposit some 10,000 bottles and cans for 10 cents apiece -- even though they came from out of state, which would violate the law.
A judge ruled last week there was enough evidence against Brian Edward Everidge of Columbiaville for the case to move forward, the Livingston Daily Press & Argus reported. If convicted, he could face 5 years in prison or a $5,000 fine.
State police Motor Carrier Officer Clifford Lyden testified he stopped Everidge for speeding in a truck April 27 in Livingston County. Lyden said the truck was "packed" with aluminum cans that Everidge said were from Kentucky.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}To legally receive a bottle or can refund in Michigan, beverages must be bought in the state.
In the classic "Seinfeld" episode "The Bottle Deposit," Kramer and Newman hatch a similar scheme, but eventually give up.
Defense attorney Marcus Wilcox says Everidge was caught too early for the charge to stick, saying he "attempted to attempt to return the bottles."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Lyden said in court that the suspect's truck was so jam-packed, “I don’t think you could have put another five or 10 cans in there.” He said small, dark-colored bags filled the spaces between larger, clear bags.
People who return bottles and cans for cash can get the best deal in Michigan, the Press & Argus reported. California also offers 10-cent refunds, but only for bottles 24 ounces or larger.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.