Hastings Magistrates have jailed a man for 12 months after a fly-tipping spree which left large amounts of renovation and house clearance waste across six locations in Wealden during 2015.—Wealden Distritc Council, 15 June 2017
After pleading not guilty at an earlier hearing this year, Jamie Tanner (25) of Woodacres, Hailsham, pleaded guilty to six incidents of fly tipping and the related duty of care offences when he appeared at Hastings Magistrates’ Court for trial on 8 June 2017.
As a result of his fly-tipping spree, access to farmland was blocked and on one occasion crops spoiled by the dumping of the waste. Land at Pick Hill, Chiddingly; Michelham Priory Road, Hailsham; Tanyard Hill, Waldron; Deanland Road, Ripe; Squab Lane, Magham Down and Common Lane, Selmeston was all blighted by the series of fly tips left by Mr Tanner. The Court heard how he had continued fly tipping despite having previously been prosecuted by both Wealden and Lewes District Council for the offence.
Magistrates on Thursday took into account Mr Tanner’s late guilty plea but also the severity of the offences and passed sentence accordingly.
Jamie Tanner was sentenced to 12 months immediate custody and also a 12 months driving ban.
“The result of this court case follows a lengthy and complex investigation by Wealden’s Street Scene Team who aim to keep the Wealden countryside looking its best,” said Councillor Ann Newton, Wealden Cabinet member with responsibility for environment and conservation. “I would like to thank them for their hard work. It sends out a clear message for any potential fly tippers:- We Are Watching You!”
Costs of £400 were awarded to Wealden District Council and Mr Tanner was ordered to pay £115 victim surcharge.
If anyone witnesses fly tipping please do not intervene or approach the offenders but take the details of any vehicle involved along with a description of the suspects and pass this to the Street Scene Team on 01892 602735 or street.scene@wealden.gov.uk Please do not touch or tamper with fly tipped waste for health and safety and investigative reasons.
Householders also have a part to play in preventing fly tipping – always ensure that any waste you have removed is taken away by a registered waste carrier. Don’t be afraid to ask to see a licence and make a note of the details on the licence to ensure we do not have to take action against you if your waste is found dumped.
