independent petroleum association at a meeting, right? what happened? >> he told the group straight on that i'm the new sheriff in town. that we're going to use everything in the book to come after you. >> what was the reaction of the people there? >> shock, disbelief, shock and awe. >> there had been abuses by federal agencies before, but in the obama epa is unfortunately at the top of that bad list in terms of really using overtly threatening behavior. >> still, at least until his meeting with president obama hamm had been hopeful he could change the mind of the administration. but while he couldn't get through to the president, two weeks after that white house summit the department of justice got through to him. on august 2nd, 2011, they brought criminal charges against his company continental resources. the crime?