In a significant legal decision, the Lithuanian Supreme Court reviewed the case surrounding the infamous fire at the Alytus tire recycling company, Ekologistika. Among those sentenced is J. Cicėnas, found guilty of multiple charges, including environmental supervision violations, property destruction due to negligence, and forgery, resulting in a combined prison sentence of three years and three months, with the execution deferred for two years to allow for potential rehabilitation. The companies involved, UAB Ekologistika and UAB Vivatrans, faced hefty fines totaling 500,000 euros for breaching environmental regulations and norms regarding tire storage.

The court found that Ekologistika had stored significantly more tires than legally permitted, holding over 4,000 tons compared to the allowed limit of 1,920 tons. This considerable overstocking contributed to the environmental hazard posed by the fire, which sparked public outcry and regulatory scrutiny regarding waste disposal practices in Lithuania. The rulings not only impose legal responsibilities on the involved parties but also serve as a warning to other companies regarding adherence to environmental laws and regulations.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges Lithuania faces in managing industrial waste effectively and the enforcement of environmental laws. The significant fines and potential jail time underscore the government's commitment to holding individuals and businesses accountable for environmental negligence, aiming to prevent future incidents and protect public health and safety. It reflects a broader trend of increasing legal accountability in environmental matters within the country, emphasizing the importance of responsible waste management practices.