Secret cameras lead to man being fined over dumping tyres and roof tiles in Cornwall

FOOTAGE from hidden cameras has resulted in a man being fined in connection with fly-tipping in the Clay Country in Cornwall.

Michael Richards, 35, of Scredda, St Austell, previously pleaded guilty to allowing controlled waste to be unlawfully deposited from a vehicle under his control, contrary to environmental laws.

On Tuesday, October 6, he appeared at Bodmin Magistrates Court for sentencing. The court heard that waste was deposited at Minorca Lane, Bugle, on two separate occasions.

Following issues with fly-tipping at Minorca Lane, Cornwall Council’s community protection team had deployed covert surveillance cameras to monitor and gather evidence.

These cameras captured a van registered to Richards being used to dispose of tyres and roofing tiles.

Richards said he allowed another man, known only as Pedro, to rent his vehicle on both occasions when the fly-tipping occurred. The community protection team was unable to trace this man.

Richards, who has a previous conviction for the same offence, was ordered to pay a total of £2,409 in fines and costs, this being made up of a £649 fine, a £260 victim surcharge and £1,500 towards court costs.

Following the case, Cornwall councillor Thalia Marrington, cabinet member responsible for community safety and public protection, said: "Fly-tipping is a serious criminal offence that blights communities, harms the environment and places a financial burden on taxpayers and landowners who are left to pay for the waste to be cleared.

“Our community protection team investigates environmental crimes using a range of techniques, including surveillance. This enables us to identify offenders and bring them before the courts.

“I hope this prosecution acts a warning to others that we will not tolerate fly-tipping in Cornwall.”

The council is reminding residents and businesses that if they pay for waste to be removed, they must ensure it is done by a registered waste carrier.