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More litter 'tossers' fined by court

Twelve more litter louts have been fined after hearings at Plymouth Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

The court heard how the offenders were all given fixed penalty notices by the Council’s environmental enforcement officers, who witnessed them dropping litter on the city’s streets.

However, despite several reminders, the fixed penalty notices remained unpaid, resulting in a summons to court.

The court found 11 of the defendants guilty in their absence and ordered them each to pay a fine of £220, legal costs of £200 and a victim surcharge of £32. The other defendant submitted a guilty plea by post and was fined £100, ordered to pay £50 costs and a £32 victim surcharge.

The original fixed penalty notice was for just £100.

All of the fines must now be paid within 28 days. All 16 defendants will also now carry a criminal record.

These fines come in the same week that the Council has upped the ante on littering.

A number of humorous posters and signs are appearing throughout the city that ask people not to toss their litter.

Since pictures of the signs began to appear on social media, feedback has been really positive.

Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Street Scene and the Environment, said: "We're sick of being nice about it. Littering is disgusting and we've had enough.

"We know it's not a new idea but hopefully by using some more frank language, these signs will make people think twice about 'tossing' their litter away. 

Councillor Sally Haydon, Cabinet member for Customer Focus and Community Safety, said: "The people in court on Tuesday decided to show little respect for the city and I'm glad that they have received a heavy fine.

"By punishing the people who drop litter, we're showing everyone that we've had enough and we will not stand for it."