An environmental enforcement initiative from the Ohio Attorney General’s Office has received international recognition for its efforts to address illegal dumping across the state. The program, called “Shine a Light on Dumpers,” was honored by the International Association of Chiefs of Police with the Chief David Cameron Leadership in Environmental Crimes Award.
The initiative is a collaboration between the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), the Environmental Enforcement Section of Attorney General Dave Yost’s office, and local law enforcement agencies. It was launched on Earth Day in 2023 to provide law enforcement and local governments with training, education, legal guidance, investigative support, specialized equipment, and prosecutorial assistance aimed at combating environmental crimes such as illegal dumping.
“Ohio is not anyone’s garbage can,” said Attorney General Dave Yost. “This award is proof that when local partners join forces and have access to the right tools, environmental crime doesn’t stand a chance.”
Yost’s Environmental team led the effort after recognizing increasing problems caused by open dumping and burning in Ohio communities. The impact of Shine a Light on Dumpers was highlighted by a recent case involving Brookfield resident Mark Domascieno, who faced criminal charges after being caught dumping more than 35 scrap tires in Youngstown. The resources provided through the initiative contributed directly to those charges.
In April, as part of this ongoing effort, Yost’s office distributed $1 million in grant funding to support Ohio communities working to clean up illegal dump sites and prevent future offenses. A total of 29 grants were awarded throughout the state.
