Council highlights costs of fly-tipping crimes following successful prosecutions

The Environmental Services department in Great Yarmouth has one of the best records for enforcement on environmental crimes in the whole of Norfolk. The Environmental Rangers investigate incidents, follows-up tip-offs and appeal for public information to help target those who blight the environment.

Tony and Christine Baugh were responsible for fly-tipping two double mattresses and two double divan bed bases behind their property on Copperfield Avenue, Great Yarmouth. The waste had been deposited in the service alleyway, potentially impeding emergency vehicles from accessing residents in the area.

The sentencing took place at Great Yarmouth Magistrates Court on the May 17, 2022. Both mother and son pleaded guilty and were ordered to pay £320 each, allowing for one third reduction for the guilty plea, plus a victim surcharge of £34. Mr Baugh was also ordered to pay an additional £450 for costs.

Cllr Paul Wells, chairman of the environmental committee, said: ""Fly-tipping is unacceptable, and, in this example, it is especially frustrating as the offence has been committed in an area being targeted by the council to discourage crimes such as these.

"Whilst targeted patrols are carried out, the Rangers cannot be everywhere at once and rely on other evidence, including public tip-offs to help target the right individuals. All approaches will be treated in complete confidence."

Anyone who witnesses an environmental crime in the borough or has information that may help to identify an offender should contact the Environmental Rangers and provide as much information as possible, such as the location and time of offence, what occurred, the description or address of the offender(s), and the registration number of any vehicle involved. The quickest way to report is to download the Love Clean Streets APP, or you can call 01493 846478.