Suspended sentence for father and son importing and burning waste

A father and son have received suspended sentences after illegally importing, storing, and burning waste at two sites to avoid permitting and disposal costs.

An Environment Agency investigation that large quantities of household and hazardous waste were brought onto sites and burned without authorisation. Mixed waste was discovered in skips, and large bonfires containing household items. Large piles of ash were found amongst waste suggesting repeated burning.

During one inspection, a drone was flown over the site but had to be withdrawn due to gunshots being fired at it.

The father was sentenced to 55 and 45 weeks in prison to run concurrently. These orders were suspended for 22 months. He was also ordered to do 140 hours of unpaid work. The son as sentenced to 58 and 45 weeks in prison to run concurrently. These orders were suspended for 22 months. He was also ordered to do 150 hours of unpaid work.