The Nation - News from May 4, 1989

The man who was skipper of the tanker Exxon Valdez when it struck a reef and caused the nation’s largest oil spill pleaded not guilty to criminal charges, including operating the vessel while drunk. Joseph Hazelwood, 42, entered the plea through his attorney in a 15-minute proceeding in Anchorage before Alaska Judge David Stewart. Hazelwood, who was silent and declined to answer reporters’ questions, was ushered out a back door of the courtroom immediately after the hearing. Hazelwood, who was fired by Exxon after the March 24 accident, is charged with operating a vessel while drunk, reckless endangerment and negligent discharge of oil.