Double fly-tipping offender sentenced in court
A man who committed two fly-tipping offences in the same location, within the space of less than two weeks, has been prosecuted in court, following investigation by Buckinghamshire Council.
Leroy Bartholomew, age 60, from London, pleaded guilty to the two offences of illegal dumping of waste when he appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court. He returned to the court on Thursday 20 February 2025 for sentencing.
The court heard that on Thursday 25 January 2024, four large barrels were dumped at the side of the A412 Uxbridge Road, Buckinghamshire. Just over a week later, on Saturday 3 February 2024, 150 tyres were also dumped at the same location.
Buckinghamshire Council’s Enforcement Team is often in the area following up regular fly-tipping and investigations were undertaken. CCTV footage from a nearby camera showed a vehicle pull into a layby on the road. The CCTV showed, on both occasions, an individual throwing waste into the ditch. The individual got back into the vehicle and drove away leaving the waste behind.
The vehicle was traced to Leroy Bartholomew. Despite Bartholomew choosing not to cooperate with the investigation, the case was put forward for prosecution on the basis of the CCTV evidence.
After pleading guilty at the first hearing at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court, Bartholomew attended a sentencing hearing on 20 February before District Judge Sharma. Bartholomew was given a 12-month community order to carry out 120 hours unpaid work in the community and 8 days rehabilitation activity requirement. Prosecution costs of £1,200 were awarded to be paid by Bartholomew at rate of £50 per month.
Thomas Broom, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Environment commented: “The evidence in this case was overwhelming and allowed us to bring the case to court despite the defendant choosing not to engage with our investigations.
“We will always seek to prosecute where we can and rely on the judicial system to deliver a ruling that acts as a firm deterrent to 'would-be' offenders. Once a case goes to court and a defendant is found guilty, the sentence imposed by the judge must weigh up the severity of the offence with the individual circumstances of the case before deciding on the sentence.
“In this case the defendant will have to carry out a lengthy term of community service which will allow him to reflect on his actions; actions which have earned him a criminal record.
This should also be seen as a reminder to others; we will not tolerate fly-tipping in Buckinghamshire - regardless of the outcome.”
If you have evidence showing an offence taking place and you are willing to provide a witness statement, please contact the council’s Enforcement Team at: [email protected]
To report fly-tipping anywhere in Buckinghamshire visit: www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/fix-my-street