Less public mess; Hidden cameras helping trap illegal dumpers.

• Jurisdiction: United States
• Date: 03 April 2008

Byline: Scott J. Croteau

Illegal dumping is a blight on a community, an unsightly mess of household trash, construction and demolition waste, old furniture and appliances, tires, even unwanted cars gotten rid of often under the cover of night in places sometimes hidden and sometimes in plain view.

While many don't see illegal dumping as a major problem or a crime, community officials and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection say it is an eyesore to residents with cleanup costs borne by taxpayers.

Many communities have successfully combated the problem by using hidden cameras at sites where illegal dumping had been chronic. The cameras capture images of illegal dumpers' license plate numbers and then fines are sent to culprits.

One case in Worcester led to a criminal charge when a city man actually stole one of the cameras, according to city and state officials.

Worcester has been using the hidden cameras since 2004, putting them in different places based on need, said Robert L. Moylan Jr., commissioner of public works and parks.

"They worked out very well. We started in an area behind State Liquor It was a horrible dumping area there," Mr. Moylan said. Several cameras are still out, but the city does not disclose where they are, he said.

"I like to keep it quiet and just let people know they are there."

The program has been effective; illegal dumping in Worcester has been...