Sandwell Council has issued a warrant for the arrest of an individual accused of fly-tipping after they failed to attend court to answer charges relating to illegally dumped waste.
The case relates to a fly-tipping offence committed in 2025. The individual was issued a Fixed Penalty Notice by the council but did not pay it, leading to court proceedings.
Council steps up enforcement activity
Sandwell Council is intensifying its efforts to tackle environmental crime across the borough. Council teams have recently removed significant quantities of illegally dumped waste from known fly-tipping hotspots at Forge Lane and Park Lane, and gathered evidence to support prosecutions.
Councillor Bob Jones, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Environment and Enforcement, said: "Sandwell is demonstrating that one by one we will start turning the tide against fly-tippers. We will not shy away from taking legal action against those who blight our neighbourhoods through fly-tipping."
"If people ignore Fixed Penalty Notices, fail to engage with the legal process or refuse to take responsibility for their actions, we will continue to pursue them through the courts. We have already identified a number of individuals through evidence recovered from fly-tipped waste and a range of investigations are continuing."
How the council investigates fly-tipping
Council officers examine waste routinely for evidence that can identify those responsible for dumping it. Investigations also identify individuals who may have failed in their duty of care when arranging for waste to be removed.
The council is increasing surveillance at known fly-tipping hotspots and continues to work with partner organisations to investigate potential offences and protect local communities from environmental crime.
Advice for residents arranging waste removal
Residents are reminded to ensure that anyone removing waste on their behalf is properly authorised and holds a valid waste carrier licence. Failing to check can result in waste being dumped illegally and may leave householders liable for enforcement action.
Anyone who witnesses fly-tipping or discovers illegally dumped waste can report it using Sandwell Council's online reporting form or by calling 0121 569 7474.