WESTMINSTER : Anti-Scavenger Law Gets Initial Approval
People caught scavenging in somebody else’s trash may be arrested, fined or sent to jail under a proposed ordinance the City Council tentatively approved last week.
City officials said the ordinance is in response to complaints from residents and business owners who said scavengers are scattering litter on the streets after removing aluminum cans, newspapers and other recyclables from trash bins.
In addition, they said scavengers are sometimes looking for personal records, credit card receipts or bank statements that could be used to defraud.
“I’ve been a victim of garbage snoopers myself,” said Councilwoman Charmayne S. Bohman, who said she had caught a scavenger looking for personal records in her trash.
The ordinance is also intended to protect the health of scavengers and others, officials said.
Violations would be misdemeanors punishable by $500 fines, six months in jail or both.
The council will consider the ordinance for final approval in January.
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