Diesel Dave, whose real name is David "Heavy D" Sparks, is in jail because he was found in contempt of court for failing to pay fees related to a 2017 environmental lawsuit. The lawsuit accused him and his company of violating the Clean Air Act by selling auto parts that override emissions controls on diesel vehicles. A federal judge ordered his arrest after Sparks repeatedly disobeyed court orders and did not pay over $840,000 in fines and attorney fees. He was taken into custody in Salt Lake City and is being held until he complies with the court's requirements, which include settling the fines or addressing specific court orders. His arrest stems from civil contempt rather than criminal charges.
Background of the Case
The lawsuit was initiated by Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment in 2017 and found that Diesel Dave and his associates were selling diesel trucks that emitted pollutants far exceeding legal limits. The court ruled against them in 2020. Since then, Sparks failed to comply with multiple court orders related to paying fines and restrictions on disposing or selling certain assets tied to the case.
Court Proceedings and Contempt
- Sparks was previously found in contempt twice but was not arrested until the recent ruling in October 2025.
- He held a garage sale in violation of court orders and failed to pay the ordered fees.
- After exhausting all other legal means to compel compliance, the judge ordered his incarceration until he meets the court's conditions.
Clarifications
- Sparks' attorney emphasized that this is not a criminal arrest but the consequence of a civil matter involving attorney fee collection.
- Diesel Dave is known for his role on the Discovery Channel's Diesel Brothers show and his large social media following, which increased even amid legal troubles.