Green Area Water & Sanitary Authority Reports Theft of Government Property
GAWSA is seeking help identifying individuals caught taking items from a government dumpster. While it may seem like simple dumpster diving, it’s illegal - trespassing and theft of government property. The act poses safety risks and violates public infrastructure protocols.
The Green Area Water & Sanitary Authority (GAWSA) is asking for the public’s help identifying individuals captured on camera removing items from a dumpster located on government property. While the act may appear to be a simple case of “dumpster diving,” officials stress that it is both unlawful and harmful.
According to GAWSA, the incident took place on secure government grounds, and the individuals were observed taking materials without permission. The organization is urging anyone who can identify those involved to contact their office at (541) 679-6451.
Although some may view dumpster diving as harmless or even resourceful, GAWSA officials emphasize that removing anything from government property without authorization is considered theft of government property under Oregon law. This applies even when the items in question appear to be discarded.
Why It’s a Crime
- Trespassing: Most government facilities, including utility service yards and wastewater treatment plants, are restricted-access areas. Entering these areas without permission is illegal.
- Theft of Government Property: Items placed in dumpsters on government property are still legally owned by the government agency until formally disposed of. Removing them without permission constitutes theft.
- Safety Hazards: Dumpsters at facilities like GAWSA may contain hazardous or contaminated materials that pose serious health risks. These are not household waste bins - they may include industrial chemicals, sharp tools, or biohazards.
- Liability and Tampering Risks: Interfering with waste disposal processes can lead to disruptions in operations or even environmental violations, especially if restricted materials are removed.
GAWSA is taking the incident seriously and urges the public to report any information that may assist in the investigation. The authority reiterated that their facility and equipment are critical to public infrastructure and must be protected accordingly.
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