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Litterbugs and Pet Owners Prosecuted

On Friday 2 December at Bournemouth Magistrates Court, the Borough of Poole's Environmental and Consumer Protection Service successfully prosecuted a number of people for littering and for failing to pick up after their dogs, after they had fouled public open spaces in Poole.

The offences were committed between May and September at locations across the Borough.

Nine people were prosecuted receiving fines of between £30 and £150 plus costs after entering guilty pleas. A tenth person was convicted in absence after she failed to turn up and  two cases were adjourned to another court date.

Six of the cases where guilty pleas were entered related to littering from a car - specifically cigarette butts. The highest fine imposed was for a dog fouling offence where the defendant had originally given a false address. The magistrates stated that this defendant had been deliberately obstructive.

Councillor Don Collier, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Borough of Poole, said: "Dog owners need to be vigilant when exercising their animals.  The community at large has given a very clear message to the council - they want zero tolerance applied to dog fouling, littering, fly posting, graffiti and business waste not being contained correctly. Today's prosecutions send out a clear message - there is no excuse for littering or failing to clear up after your dog."

Shaun Robson, Head of Environmental and Consumer Protection Services, Borough of Poole, said: "Officers are proactively working to try and catch the small minority of littler louts and anti-social dog owners who still fail to pick up their dogs' faeces. Patrols of public areas will continue and all offenders can be sure that they will be reported. From April 2006 onwards, the authority will be phasing in the use of fixed penalty notices but those charged with more serious offences will still face prosecution."

Pet owners in Poole are reminded that they are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs on all public open spaces including all public beaches. Dog owners should have sufficient bags on them at all times and be prepared to use them. It is not a reasonable excuse that your dog got away from you and you failed to see it foul.

The maximum fine for littering and dog fouling offence is £1000 and responsible members of the community are encouraged to report those littering or dog owners who they see leaving their dogs faeces behind. The public can report such offenders in Poole to Environmental and Consumer Protection Services on 01202 261700.

Shaun Robson, Head of Environmental & Consumer Protection, Borough of Poole tel 01202 261701