Facebook advertiser prosecuted for dumping rubbish in Harpurhey
John Mallon, 42, of Massey Avenue, Failsworth M35, had promoted his business ‘JM Waste Disposal Services’ on Facebook and was caught when rubbish collected from residents and illegally dumped in Harpurhey on two separate occasions were traced back to him.
On the 25th May 2021 and 1st December 2021, Biffa operatives working on behalf of Manchester City Council found fly-tipped waste on council land at Smedley Road and Monsall Street in Harpurhey with evidence relating to individuals in Manchester who told the Environmental Crimes team that they had paid Mr Mallon to dispose of their waste.
Officers from the Environmental Crimes team invited Mr Mallon to attend a recorded interview under the Police and Criminal Evidence (PACE) Act 1984, where he denied the offences under caution.
At the hearing at Manchester Magistrates Court on 2 November 2023, Mr Mallon pleaded guilty to two offences under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 of failing to take steps to prevent the waste being fly-tipped and was fined £1,550.
He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £155, and costs of £800.
Councillor Joanna Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said:
“It never ceases to amaze me that people can be so brazen. Advertising waste removal services and then just dumping the waste, blighting our neighbourhoods and expecting the council to pick up the tab to remove it will not be tolerated.
“Fly-tipping is an environmental crime, and we will always take action against anyone who commits this crime in our communities.”
