Garden State Times

Commissioner Al Dyer joined Congressman Donald Norcross, Chief Gabriel Rodriguez, Mayor Victor Carstarphen, and other city leaders on Monday to discuss the impact of federal funds on Camden City's efforts to arrest, fine, and impound the vehicles of illegal dumpers. The funds have been used to enhance the quality of life for residents by holding accountable those who dump large amounts of trash in the city.

Mayor Carstarphen announced a new reward program that will offer monetary rewards to individuals providing credible evidence leading to the arrest of illegal dumpers. The Camden City Council passed an ordinance on June 11 allowing for this reward system. Compensation ranges from $500 to $1,000 for information that assists law enforcement in apprehending and convicting suspects.

“Having these tools has been invaluable for our law enforcement professionals,” Commissioner Dyer said. “Seeing contractors and landlords dump their trash on our streets is always appalling, but now those same individuals will need to think twice before they act.”

Congressman Donald Norcross highlighted how securing federal funds for an improved camera system would help stop illegal dumping across Camden.

“Illegal dumping is wrong and dangerous for our communities,” Norcross said. “I was proud to secure $500,000 in community project funding for a citywide camera network that is now catching perpetrators in the act.”

Mayor Carstarphen emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal dumping.

“Illegal dumping in Camden will not be tolerated,” Carstarphen said. “We are grateful to Congressman Norcross for fighting for federal funding used to purchase essential crime-fighting equipment.”

Chief Gabriel Rodriguez discussed how technology has provided additional surveillance capabilities.

“These cameras have been a force multiplier for us,” Rodriguez said. “They have illuminated darkened spaces where dumpers go to pollute our community with their trash.”