Four Devon Waste Offenders Convicted in Major Environment Agency Operation

An investigation by the Environment Agency into a waste dumping site in Devon has reached its conclusion, resulting in four individuals being convicted of illegal waste disposal activities.

The most recent individual to face penalties is Stephen White, a 66-year-old waste carrier from Broadhempston, Totnes. He was fined for his involvement in the unlawful deposition of waste on land located near Kingsteignton.

Between June 2019 and October 2021, White is estimated to have illegally deposited between 450 and 588 tonnes of waste at the site. Following his conviction, he was ordered to pay a total of £11,741, which included a fine of £1,292. In addition, he was required to pay £7,650 representing the financial benefit he gained, alongside the costs incurred by the Environment Agency and a victim surcharge.

Responsibilities of Registered Waste Carriers

Registered waste carriers are obligated to exercise due diligence regarding the disposal of waste, ensuring they are fully aware of the sites to which they send their refuse. The investigation at this particular site previously led to the imprisonment of landowner Christopher Garrett in 2024, as well as fines imposed on waste carriers DTM Grab Hire and David Gorton earlier this year.

Authorities discovered thousands of tonnes of mixed construction and demolition waste at the premises, with remediation costs estimated to exceed £2.5 million.

Consequences for Illegal Waste Activities

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency remarked on the complexity of the operation, which involved multiple defendants, and expressed satisfaction at the successful conclusion with four convictions. They affirmed that such actions demonstrate a firm stance against waste criminals, highlighting that enforcement measures will be taken against any individuals involved in the illegal transportation, disposal, or storage of waste.

Members of the public who suspect illegal waste activities are encouraged to report their concerns anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Details of Charges Against Stephen White

Stephen White faced two specific charges relating to his actions between 21 June 2019 and 5 October 2021. Firstly, he was found guilty of depositing waste on land at Little Lindridge Farm in Kingsteignton without the necessary environmental permit, in violation of Regulations 12(1)(a) and 38(1)(a) of the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016.

Additionally, he was charged with failing to comply with the duty of care stipulated by section 34(1)(a) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. This charge pertained to his failure as a waste carrier to take reasonable measures to prevent unlawful waste disposal by others, thus contravening sections 34(1) and 34(6) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.