By: Richard L. Smith
Two people are facing charges following separate investigations into illegal dumping at parks in Union County, authorities announced.
According to information released by the Union County Police Department, the first incident was reported August 1 after mattresses, furniture and other discarded items were discovered in a wooded section of Green Brook Park in Plainfield.
Investigators identified a white Ford Transit van that authorities said was used to transport the discarded materials.
Police subsequently charged Silvia Estrada, 29, of Plainfield with illegal disposal. She was also issued a summons for allegedly dumping on county property.
Her case is pending in Plainfield Municipal Court.
A second investigation began August 2 when a Union County Police patrol officer discovered furniture, garbage bags and other household items dumped in and around a dumpster near the Warinanco Sports Complex in Roselle.
Investigators identified a red Dodge Ram allegedly used to transport the materials and charged Juan Xopa, 20, of Elizabeth with illegal disposal.
Xopa was also issued a summons for allegedly dumping on county property. His case is pending in Roselle Municipal Court.
Union County Commissioner Chair Joseph C. Bodek condemned the dumping, saying the practice places an unnecessary burden on county resources and taxpayers while disrespecting public parks and those who use them.
Under state law, authorities said a first conviction for illegal disposal carries a fine of at least $2,500, community service and responsibility for applicable cleanup and disposal costs.
A conviction under the county ordinance could result in an additional $500 fine.