Prolific fly-tipper jailed for 20 weeks for dumping waste in Wath, Wentworth and Rawmarsh

Keith Richardson (46), of Nelston Street, Rotherham, was jailed for 20 weeks for dumping waste illegally in locations including Wath, Rawmarsh and Wentworth.

He pleaded guilty to ten offences under section 33 of the Environmental Protection Act at Sheffield Magistrates’ Court last Tuesday (18) and was found to be in breach of a current suspended sentence order.

Rotherham Council said it had traced the offender over a number of months and had recorded the significant amounts of rubbish dumped in a number of locations.

A spokesman said: “The prolific fly tipper dumped waste illegally and on several occasions blocked roads.

“Despite having his first vehicle taken from him he continued to hire vehicles before purchasing a second one to continue his activities.

“This also resulted in him having this vehicle seized and forfeited.” 

The spokesman said Richardson was the first person to be jailed for fly-tipping in South Yorkshire.

Cllr Emma Hoddinott, the council’s cabinet member for Waste, Roads and Community Safety said: “We will not tolerate people fly-tipping in Rotherham and will use our full powers to bring offenders to justice.

“I'm really pleased that the court has given a custodial sentence for this matter, which reflects the seriousness of the crime, and the impact of fly-tipping on our communities.

“This sends a clear message. People who fly-tip in Rotherham will be caught and will be prosecuted.” 

To report fly tipping go to www.rotherham.gov.uk/report or call 01709 336003