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BASTROP – The Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office has sent a clear message to residents — illegal dumping can lead to hefty fines and potential jail time.
Earlier this month, deputies responded to a complaint about ongoing illegal dumping along Boyd Road off Farm to Market 812 in Cedar Creek. Upon arrival, they discovered a concerning pile of household garbage, industrial-sized waste bags, tires, appliances and other discarded items.
“Illegal dumping is not only unsightly for the community, but also poses environmental and health hazards by polluting waterways wit h contaminated storm water runoff and attracting rodents and mosquitoes which carry diseases,” Sheriff Maurice Cook said. To combat the growing issue of illegal dumping, the Bastrop County Sheriff’s Office has appointed an environmental enforcement investigator within its criminal investigations division.
Violators of the Texas Health and Safety Code can face fines ranging from less than $500 to as much as $10,000, depending on the weight and volume of the illegal materials disposed of, according to the office. In some cases, offenders may also face jail time of up to two years.
Residents were reminded that anyone involved in the improper disposal of litter or solid waste at locations not designated as approved solid waste sites, whether on private property or public land regulated by a governmental entity, will be arrested. Charges will be forwarded to the Bastrop County District Attorney’s Office for prosecution of illegal dumping.
For those looking to dispose of waste responsibly, the Bastrop County Recycling Center and Transfer Station, at 601 Cool Water Drive, accepts tires and other materials.
