Over 1,500 Pounds of Trash Dumped Near Murphy Creek

Photo for illustrative purposes onlyPhoto byAlex TerolonUnsplash

A man was charged after officers discovered a large pile of trash, estimated at over 1,500 pounds, discarded alongside a road near Murphy Creek Conservation Area in Putnam County, according to the most recent Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) weekly law enforcement report.

The report states that upon investigation, officers located and interviewed a suspect linked to the scene. The individual, who was not named in the report, admitted to dumping the trash and was promptly charged with illegal dumping. The suspect was also ordered to clean up the discarded items.

Illegal dumping poses a significant threat to Florida's natural areas and can result in heafty fines and penalties. The Florida Litter Law outlines strict penalties for illegal dumping. Key penalties include:

1. Noncriminal Infraction: For dumping up to 15 pounds or 27 cubic feet of litter, a civil fine of $150, with $50 going to the Solid Waste Management Trust Fund.
2. Misdemeanor of the First Degree: For dumping between 15 and 500 pounds or 27 to 100 cubic feet, punishable by fines and community service, with points added to the driver's license if a vehicle was used.
3. Felony of the Third Degree: For dumping over 500 pounds or for commercial purposes, including hazardous waste, punishable by fines and possible community service, along with forfeiture of vehicles used in the act.