Fly tipping and pollution
The hefty price of a takeaway: Walsall Council takes litterbugs to court
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Walsall Council has successfully prosecuted two individuals for littering in the borough.
Both will now pay hundreds of pounds in fines for dropping their waste irresponsibly.
Roshelle Lumsden, of New Street, Walsall, threw down, dropped or otherwise deposited litter from a vehicle on High Street, Pelsall on 29 January 2024.
Magistrates heard the case at Birmingham court on 17 July 2024.
Lumsden was fined £220 for the offence, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £88, and associated costs of £180, bringing the total fine to £488.
Similarly, Saheeb Chaudhry, of Rowley Street, Walsall, threw takeaway wrappings on White Street, Caldmore in April 2024.
Chaudry was fined £220 for littering, an £88 victim surcharge and other costs of £276.72. Chaudry now faces £584.72 in fines.
Both Lumsden and Chaudry breached the Environmental Protection Act.
“ I’m really pleased we’re seeing regular results like this in Walsall. This isn’t just a win for the council, it’s a win for all of our residents and communities who want to live in a clean borough too.
The council is absolutely committed to holding people to account who think they can treat Walsall with little-to-no respect.
Once again, a moment of irresponsible behaviour has caught up with individuals who now have to pay a hefty fine for damaging our environment.
Our CCTV cameras across the borough are helping us to clamp down on this issue. My message to perpetrators is simple, we are watching you and we will catch you should you choose to treat our borough as a tip.
You may notice that these offences date back to the first few months of this year, which showcases the dedication of our community protection team, who work exceptionally hard to make sure these cases are seen right through until the end. “
Ends
Further information
- Every person who litters is offered the opportunity to pay a Fixed Penalty Notice of £150 or £120 if they pay within 14 days.
- If the payment is not paid then litter cases have to be laid before the court within 6 months of the incident occurring. The court then set a date for when the case will be heard by a Magistrate or Judge.
- If found guilty in a court of law the person who has littered receives a fine which is generally much larger than the Fixed Penalty Notice, makes a contribution to Victims of Crime costs and pays the councils costs for bringing the case. They also have a criminal record which can affect many aspects of their lives including chances of employment, getting insurance and enrolling in education (https://www.dbschecks.org.uk/how-a-criminal-record-affects-your-life/ )
