Diesel Brothers Star David Sparks Arrested for Contempt in Lawsuit Ruling
Grand Jury Arrests “Diesel Brothers” Star David Sparks Over Clean Air Act Violations
Contempt of Court: Why David Sparks is Facing Jail Time
David Sparks, renowned as “Heavy D” from the Discovery Channel’s “Diesel Brothers,” finds himself in legal hot water. Arrested on October 7, 2023, in Salt Lake County, Utah, Sparks’ arrest follows a U.S. District Court judge’s contempt ruling. The court alleged persistent violations of previous orders linked to a lawsuit over Clean Air Act breaches.
Sparks, who boasts over 8 million followers through his influential social media platforms, is known for his diesel truck customizations. Yet, ongoing litigation since 2017 has placed a cloud over his career. Despite earlier contempt findings in June 2024 and July 2025, arrest was only mandated after Sparks violated enforcement conditions by holding an unauthorized garage sale.
Attorney Responds to Contempt Allegations
Cole Cannon, Sparks’ attorney, clarified that his client was not charged with a crime, describing the situation as a civil dispute over attorney fees. “Mr. Sparks looks forward to resolving this matter promptly,” Cannon stated, indicating an eagerness for closure.
The 2017 Lawsuit: Violations of the Clean Air Act
Originating in 2017, the lawsuit against Sparks and fellow “Diesel Brothers” casts a spotlight on environmental controversies. Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment accused the group of removing emission control systems from diesel vehicles. This led to concerns about amplified pollutant levels and subsequent dangers to public health.
With a 2020 court ruling in favor of the activists, “Diesel Brothers” were ordered to cease such modifications and cover legal fees exceeding $843,000. Sparks and his co-stars were accused of neglecting payment obligations, sparking further legal interventions.
Next Steps: Potential Resolution
In response to the ongoing legal saga, the court has given Sparks a pathway to resolve his contempt status. Compliance through financial settlement or filing resolutions linked to the enforcement orders can lead to his release from incarceration. A crucial hearing scheduled for October 8 will further determine Sparks’ fate.
While Sparks has voiced regret for “past mistakes” related to smoky truck modifications, resolution efforts continue. The upcoming court proceedings are expected to delve deeper into these allegations and dictate future compliance measures.
