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Atlanta city leaders say dumping of debris can pose a safety hazard for children and lessen property values. Those are two of the reasons City Hall hopes to stop illegal dumping with cameras and a new command center. FOX 5 got a look at the operation.
ATLANTA - The city of Atlanta issues a warning to individuals or businesses that dump discarded items in the public right of way.
Officials have new tools to go after violators. Those include surveillance cameras, and a new command center where police and civilian staff monitor activities.
"People think this is a victimless crime, but it is not," said Al Wiggins, the commissioner of the Atlanta Department of Public Safety.
The cameras are portable, enabling staff to place them at known trouble spots.
"It stops," Wiggins added, when potential violators see that their image may be captured.
Wiggins said there are so many items beyond old rubber tires that are thrown out of passing vehicles. They include appliances, furniture, clothing, and leftover construction materials.
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Wiggins has been given two Atlanta police officers for enforcement. Penalties can include felonies.
There could be a reward of $2,000 awaiting the person who reports a violator.
The number to call in tips is 404-546-3867.