rebootit,

It's not a $10,000 fine, it's $25,000. It's very clearly laid out in the EPA test material.

That said, as with any crime you have to be caught in the act or otherwise have clear evidence for prosecution.

For an individual it would be difficult to be caught. It would not be so difficult for a shop to be caught because records are supposed to be kept of each vehicle serviced, amount of refrigerant recovered or recycled, etc.

Have a great day,