In a concerted effort to combat environmental crimes and preserve the beauty of communities in the Vale of Glamorgan, authorities have taken action against fly-tippers.

Recently, two individuals found themselves facing the consequences of their actions as they were issued with £300 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for illegally dumping waste.

Manager of enforcement services at Vale of Glamorgan Council, Craig Handley said: "Two suspects were each interviewed under PACE Caution, and both admitted to having passed their waste to an unlicensed waste carrier. 

"Consequently, they were both each issued with a £300 Fixed Penalty Notice for failing in their duty of care to pass controlled waste to a person authorised to receive the same (pursuant to S.34(1)(c)(i) Environmental Protection Act 1990.

"We take these crimes very seriously and hope this acts as a warning for others that dump or offload their waste illegally."

 The incident unfolded in the Vale of Glamorgan, where authorities received reports of illegal waste disposal in a residential area via social media. Witnesses identified a yellow-coloured pick-up truck that was in the process of fly-tipping at Leckwith Hill. 

The vehicle was not displaying any number plates, but photographic and video footage was submitted to the Vale's enforcement services by members of the public. The former showed the vehicle proceeding along Leckwith Hill, with waste continuing to be tipped as the vehicle was in motion, showing a careless regard for other road users.

In accordance with regulations aimed at deterring fly-tipping and holding offenders accountable, the two suspects were promptly issued with £300 Fixed Penalty Notices. This penalty serves as a stern warning to those who disregard environmental laws and engage in irresponsible waste disposal practices.

However, one of the suspects still hasn't paid their Fixed Penalty Notice and could now be prosecuted for that offence. 

Such offences are triable either-way (in that they can be both summary and indictable and so can be heard before the Magistrates or escalated to the Crown Court). 

If summary convicted, the suspect could receive an unlimited fine or if convicted on indictment, could receive the same fine as well as well as a period of imprisonment.

Cllr Mark Wilson, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet Member for Neighbourhood and Building Services, said: "We are resolute in our commitment to catching fly-tippers and preserving our environment.

"By holding offenders accountable and enforcing strict penalties, we send a clear message: illegal waste disposal will not be tolerated.

"The collaborative effort between the public and our enforcement services means we can safeguard the beauty of our surroundings and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

"It is imperative that we continue to prioritize environmental stewardship and work together to create a cleaner, healthier environment for all."