Fall River Police Department, City Council, officials, community members, implementing initiatives to combat illegal dumping

At a Fall River Committee on Health & Environmental Affairs meeting, it was discussed Tuesday ways to combat illegal dumping.

Members of the Fall River Police Department, City Council, and the community brought to the forefront several initiatives, some of which have already begun to be implemented.

One idea proposed was to have some form of registry for those who pick up bulk items. It was noted that some are advertising on social media such as Facebook Marketplace prices that are too good to be true. They are then dumping what they collect illegally.

The Fall River Police Department in conjunction with the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office has begun issuing stiffer penalties for illegal dumping that has become prevalent in city parks and wooded areas. An increase in fines was also discussed.

Authorities, with help from City Hall, have added additional cameras to help catch suspects.

Signage, with penalties listed, will be posted throughout the city in hopes of deterring dumpers particularly in areas near the city water supply.

An informal task force has begun meeting with Mayor Paul Coogan that has started streamlining communication to track the dumping with police issuing criminal penalties, not just civil ones.

Community members are encouraged to follow the adage “see something, say something.”