Derek McAllister, 61, sentenced for creating harmful smog by illegally burning waste, including asbestos and cars, near Potterton, raising health concerns.
He received 150 hours of unpaid work and an 18-month supervision order. McAllister pleaded guilty at Aberdeen Sheriff Court to illegally keeping and burning the waste.
McAllister faces a confiscation order of £60,000. Initially, £3,000 is available now. The order allows seizing future assets he obtains to repay the full amount earned criminally.
Iain Batho, who leads environmental crime cases, said environmental crime worries the public. He added that it is criminal behavior that harms communities and there is no excuse for illegal waste disposal.
Residents reported fumes entering their homes. McAllister showed little regard for the environment, and John McKenzie also participated in these actions. The proper authorities will act against such conduct.
The site, owned by McAllister’s late father, was near Potterton. McAllister lacked necessary waste management licenses and didn’t apply for waste exemption certificates.
Police and SEPA warned McAllister repeatedly, but he ignored them and continued unauthorized burning. His yard, Den Quarry, was unsecured at the time.
Potterton residents complained about harmful fumes, unable to hang clothes outside and forced to seal windows to avoid the smoke.
Smoke mixed with North Sea fog, creating a choking smog feeling. This raised health concerns among the villagers present.
John McKenzie, 27, was previously fined £240 and got a nine-month community payback order as well, assisting McAllister’s illegal burning activity.
