Errant polluters who dump unwanted trash in Baltimore neighborhoods may have to forfeit their vehicle if caught, according to a proposed law being touted by a veteran City Council member.
The law, which would give the city the right to confiscate any vehicle involved in illegal dumping, is being offered as a solution for the city?s ongoing problem with illegal dumping.
“Just like if we catch you with drugs in your car, if we catch you dumping illegally, the vehicle will be confiscated,” said City Councilman Jack “Bernard” Young, D-12th District, who is sponsoring the measure.
Fed up with rampant dumping in his district, Young said fines have done little to stem the tide of trash dumped in vacant lots and back alleys on a daily basis.
He said illegal dumping often leaves untreated toxic materials in public spaces.
“It could contain asbestos or all kinds of toxic material. We don?t know where its coming from.”
City Department of Public Works officials admitted dumping is a problem in isolated areas but said their agency is well-equipped to catch culprits.
