Illegal dumping draws added police attention

By Eileen Oldfield Staff Writer
   The Manville police have a simple message for people dumping garbage in the borough: Stop or face fines up to $2,500.
   ”We want to put a warning out that illegal dumping will not be tolerated,” Police Chief Mark Peltack said. “Most people are not even aware that they are being watched, whether (by) residents, the police and cameras.”
   Chief Peltack said officers have charged about five people with illegal dumping this year in connection with incidents that occurred in several places through the town, though the Raritan Avenue sewer plant and the Department of Public Works pumping station on Lincoln Avenue are frequent spots.
   Dumped items included paint, building and construction materials, brush, glass, and household items, he said.
   Chief Peltack said many of the charged individuals did not think they would be caught, or claimed they had permission to dump the materials.
   While several of those charged were Manville residents, Chief Peltack said a few were from surrounding towns.
   ”Basically, they don’t want to go to the expense of hiring a Dumpster,” Chief Peltack said.
   Illegal dumping can be charged under a municipal ordinance or under state statutes, Chief Peltack said, with fines ranging from a minimum of $1,500 to $2,500. Under the state statute, the police can also seize a violator’s vehicle, and have driving privileges suspended.
   And those convicted are responsible for removing the dumped materials.