By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Union County announced that today patrol officers from the Union County Police Department discovered illegal dumping activity in the Watchung Reservation, located in Mountainside.
According to Union County officials, following a swift investigation by the Union County Police Investigations Division, Mr. Adrian Bermeo of Elizabeth was identified as the suspect and subsequently charged on September 25.
Cleanup efforts required the removal of debris equivalent to two 17-yard dumpsters. Mr. Bermeo later turned himself in to the police and provided a full confession, UCPO officials say.
Union County authorities stated that he has been charged with violating a Disorderly Persons Offense that carries a $2,500 fine for a first offense.
He also received a County Ordinance violation for Driving Off Roadway and will be held responsible for cleanup costs $1,100.22, UCPO officials said. 
Union County officials said Mr. Bermeo was processed and released pending a court date in municipal court.