A fly-tipper who was caught red handed dumping garden waste on the side of a motorway has been ordered to pay more than £1,000.
Michael McDonagh off-loaded a quantity of tree cuttings on land alongside the slip road of Junction 17 of the M25, Maple Cross, on February 3.
But the 51-year-old was spotted by a Three Rivers District Council Environmental Protection Officer who was passing by.
The officer challenged him at the roadside, whereupon he denied the offence and provided her with a false name and address.
He was traced via a DVLA check of the vehicle and was prosecuted.
McDonagh, of West Hyde, Rickmansworth, initially failed to attend court and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
He was arrested and brought before the court on September 7 when he pleaded guilty to fly-tipping.
McDonagh was fined £480 and ordered to pay the council’s costs of £666 and a victim surcharge of £48.
Cllr Phil Williams, lead member for environmental services, climate change, and sustainability, said: “By continuing to prosecute those who fly-tip across our district, we send out a clear message that fly-tipping will not be tolerated in Three Rivers.
“Not only is it an eye-sore for those who see it, and costs money to clear it, but it can have a significant impact on the environment. My thanks to all involved for their hard work in securing this conviction.”
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