Suffolk DA: Couple arrested for dumping construction debris on protected wetlands in Mastic Beach
The district attorney says someone saw Fabio and Judith Monasterolo dumping cement and cinderblocks into the protected land.
May 24, 2023, 6:10 PM
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Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney announced the arrest of two people authorities say dumped construction debris on protected wetlands in Mastic Beach.
The district attorney says someone saw Fabio and Judith Monasterolo dumping cement and cinderblocks into the protected land. That person took photos that were later sent to law enforcement.
"We are here to say there are ramifications both criminally and financially," Tierney said.
The couple is facing an E felony charge, as well as a cleanup fine up to $15,000.
Residents say the community is frustrated with these kinds of crimes.
"People are really done with the dumping here," says Julie, of Mastic. "And they are fed up with it, and something needs to be done."
Thomas Gadomski, regional captain of the State Conservation Police for Long Island, says dumping also affects the health and welfare of the people living on Long Island.
"When you dump in here and start killing these plants and adversely affecting the wildlife, it is going to be the trickledown," Gadomski says.
The case is part of the Quality-of-Life Town Coalition Initiative. Officials say they are using technology to investigate community complaints.
Tierney says there are locations across Suffolk County where people can safely dump their waste for free.
