City of Tampa Actively Pursuing Illegal Dumpers

TAMPA, FL – The City of Tampa is working to get the word out that illegal dumping not only will not be tolerated, but also will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

The city’s Neighborhood Empowerment Department, Solid Waste and Environmental Program Management have teamed up with the Tampa Police Department and the East Tampa Revitalization Community Partnership to address the problem.

According to the City of Tampa, illegal dumping is a serious problem affecting the entire municipality. In fiscal year 2017, the city reported Neighborhood Enhancement disposed nearly 2,979 tons of waste costing $210,264.

“Illegal dumping interrupts the activity of the health, safety and welfare of the (residents) of public and private sector,” said L. Miles, the Tampa Police Department Environmental Crimes Unit detective. “These costs are an inconvenience to our residing customers.”

The East Tampa Revitalization Community Partnership developed an Environmental Crime Unit, which combats illegal dumping in the East Tampa area. Surveillance cameras were installed both as a deterrent and to monitor most of the East Tampa illegal dumping hot spots.

According to the City of Tampa, there have been several cases where the motion-detection surveillance cameras have provided enough evidence to lead to the arrest of offenders. The city said the cameras have reduced somewhat the illegal dumping issues.

Illegal dumping violators can be charged civilly or criminally for improper disposal of debris not transported to the proper disposal sites. Violations can be as small as a fine up to a misdemeanor or felony charge.

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