Oct. 8, 2009
Vol. 39, No. 403

For more information contact Chief William “Chip” McDaniel, Environmental Crimes Unit, Division of Air and Waste Management, 302-739-9401 or Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902. Photo available.

Newark man arrested for illegal dumping

WILMINGTON – A digital surveillance camera helped the DNREC Environmental Crimes Unit identify and arrest a Newark man for illegal dumping.

After 2008 legislation was passed to crack down on illegal dumping in Delaware, cameras have been deployed to monitor various sites statewide. The cameras are regularly checked and maintained by DNREC Environmental Protection officers (EPOs) with the Environmental Crimes Unit.

On Oct. 5, EPOs checked the camera at Garashces Lane in Wilmington and found it had recorded a dump truck – including its license plate - emptying a load of roofing materials at the site on Oct. 3.

Following an investigation, EPOs arrested the driver, Egar Tapia, age 43, of 203 Coventry Lane, Newark, and charged him with illegal dumping. Tapia was arraigned, pled guilty and was fined a total of $637. As part of the restitution, he was ordered to clean up the materials dumped at the site.

“We want to remind citizens that dumping garbage and waste is illegal everywhere in Delaware except in a permitted landfill, and that we actively investigate possible violations,” said Chief William “Chip” McDaniel, DNREC Environmental Crimes Unit, adding that the minimum fine for a first offense for illegal dumping is $500.

To report possible illegal dumping or other environmental crimes, citizens may call DNREC’s toll-free, 24-hour environmental complaint line, 800-662-8802. Verizon wireless customers in Delaware can reach the complaint line by calling #367 on their cell phones. Citizens are also encouraged to reported locations used for suspected illegal dumping to be investigated and considered for camera placement.