Officials: Illegal Dumping Can Bring Fines, Jail Time

By ABC-7’s Andrew Chung

The Borderland is known for its breathtaking views, but it takes just a little trash to ruin the scenery.

Arroyos and dead-end roads have become the victims of illegal dumping.

Michael Scott, a code compliance inspector with the City of El Paso’s Environmental Services division, says the problem is “all over El Paso County”, adding “the further you get away from the city, out on the Eastside and the Westside, people are always dumping trash illegally”.

Michael says this trash includes tires and construction material, adding that vehicle parts are a big problem.

Two weeks ago, he says, officials picked up car doors, a tailgate, and several other parts that were enough to fill up the back of a pickup truck.

The City of El Paso wants to remind people that illegal dumping can bring fines of as much as $10,000 and/or two years in prison.

However, that won’t be the case if you bring your trash to one of the city’s recycling centers, which will take in things ranging from cardboard and newspaper to furniture and appliances.

While city officials are on the lookout for illegal dumpers, they want the public’s help too.

Michael asks the public to let officials know if they see someone dumping illegally, including writing the license plate number and getting a description of the driver. He adds that someone who witnesses illegal dumping should be ready to go to court.

Doing this will help everyone enjoy the scenic views without the clutter.