Local News · Wiltshire-wide
Wiltshire police issue arrest warrants for three men over fly-tipping offences
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Police and Wiltshire Council have issued an urgent appeal for information after three men failed to appear in court to face charges related to illegal waste dumping.
Wiltshire Police, in partnership with Wiltshire Council, have launched an appeal to locate three individuals who failed to attend court hearings regarding fly-tipping offences. The authorities have described the move as part of a collective, zero-tolerance approach to tackling environmental crime across the county.
Arrest warrants have been issued for the men after they did not appear before magistrates as required. Officials are now calling on members of the public to assist in locating them.
The individuals being sought are:
James Smith, 58, of Calne, who failed to attend a hearing at Salisbury Magistrates' Court on 31 March 2026.
Christopher Parsons, 43, of Swindon, who missed his court date at Swindon Magistrates' Court on 29 May 2026.
Matthew Andrews, 53, of Westbury, who did not attend a hearing at Salisbury Magistrates' Court on 24 April 2025.
Inspector Andy Lemon, the lead for rural crime at Wiltshire Police, emphasised the destructive impact of fly-tipping on local communities and the environment. He stated that the act causes significant harm and places a heavy financial burden on local authorities. He added that the police take these matters extremely seriously and are committed to holding offenders accountable to protect the Wiltshire countryside.
David Bullock, director of assets, highways and transport at Wiltshire Council, reiterated that the local authority would continue to pursue robust enforcement action where sufficient evidence is present. He urged anyone with information regarding the current whereabouts of the three men to come forward.
Anyone who can help police locate these individuals is encouraged to contact Wiltshire Police by calling 101. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Source: Swindon Advertiser · View original