OCALA, FL (352today.com) -City and state leaders along with law enforcement officials came together to announce the conviction of a major litterer, helping contribute to their “No Horsin’ Around with Marion” initiative to battle littering within the county.

Those present included Marion County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Craig Curry, Carrie Sekerak with the U.S. Forest Service, Capt. Robby Creech with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Division of Law Enforcement, State Attorney Bill Gladson, and Lt. Paul Bloom from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Each speaker discussed the investigation, and the roles they each played in successfully finding the litterer and holding them accountable as well as the importance of keeping Marion County beautiful.

Aron Roofing Construction LLC out of Jacksonville was found guilty of dumping over 11 tons of garbage near the Ocala National Forest. Capt. Creech says the company was supposed to dump the roofing material in a landfill. They were able to figure out who dumped the mess in Marion County after a witness from Boston came forward and helped piece all of the clues together.

Gladson says the roofing company is no longer allowed to do any work or contracting with anyone in Marion County. The company has also been fined approximately $3,000 in fines, court costs, and restitution. Additionally, the employee who illegally dumped the waste materials also has to complete 100 hours of community service at the Marion County Baseline Landfill.

Marion County officials say this case sets a precedent for future prosecutions, demonstrating the county’s unwavering commitment that those who litter will face the legal consequences of their actions.

In 2022, the county says it picked up 1.4 million pounds of litter. In 2021, over $900,000 was spent to properly dispose of litter in the county.

The “No Horsin’ Around with Marion” initiative to combat littering has three main points: “Step Up, Pick It Up, and Don’t Litter.” Those who violate the law are subject to consequences with increases in penalties and fines.

• First Offense: Subject to pay $150.
• Second Offense: Subject to incarceration in the county jail up to 10 days and/or community service and a fine of $300.
• Third Offense: Subject to incarceration in the county jail not less than 10 days and up to 30 days and/or community service and a fine of $500.
• Three or more offenses: Prior offenses will be subject to incarceration in the county jail not less than 10 days and up to 60 days and/or community service and a fine of $500.

Attorney Gladson says the initiative sets Marion County apart and he believes that it’s one of the toughest ordinances in the state.

“For those folks who don’t want to play by the rules, we’re going to hold you accountable,” said Creech.

Chairman Curry also announced that in the next few weeks, a litter hotline 352-RUB-BISH will be available.