Georgetown, Del., July 21, 2015: One person’s trash could translate to someone else’s treasure under a new reward program Sussex County is launching to curb roadside rubbish.

Constable Michael Costello updated County Council at its Tuesday, July 21, 2015, meeting on a new incentive-based program, included in the County’s adopted Fiscal 2016 budget, that will reward the public for reporting violators who are arrested for illegal dumping in the county. The County is turning to the public for assistance after discussing options earlier this year to combat roadside trash, which litters many roads, particularly in more rural, isolated areas of the county.

Partnering with Delaware Crime Stoppers, the County will reward tipsters up to $100 for each arrest made in cases of illegal dumping. Sussex County has set aside $4,000 to fund the program for the next year, but Crime Stoppers will handle the administrative aspects, from taking and forwarding tips to law enforcement to disbursing funds. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

Illegal dumping is a violation of Delaware code, and will remain the enforcement responsibility of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. County government, though, has initiated the new program to complement other agencies’ efforts.

“Law enforcement cannot be everywhere at once, so we need the public’s help to be our eyes and ears to hold violators accountable,” Mr. Costello said. “This is a sensible and affordable approach to help clean up the county, and give everyone a chance to be part of the solution.”

To provide a tip, visit Crime Stoppers’ website at new.tipsubmit.com, or call 1-800-TIP-3333.

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