Two Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat owners have been fined for high-rise littering, marking the first convictions under a new legal clause that presumes guilt if the accused cannot prove their innocence. These landmark cases set a precedent in enforcing cleanliness and safety in residential areas.
Details of the Convictions
The first individual convicted under this clause was a 63-year-old man, fined S$700 on June 11. He was accused of throwing an object out of his toilet window. Two weeks later, on June 25, a 42-year-old woman received the same fine for allegedly discarding food waste and an unknown liquid from her kitchen window.
Surveillance and Evidence
The National Environment Agency (NEA) installed surveillance cameras in response to persistent complaints of high-rise littering. The cameras successfully captured the littering acts from the flats, providing crucial evidence for the convictions.
Legal Implications
Presumption-of-Guilt Clause
Under the presumption-of-guilt clause, individuals accused of high-rise littering are presumed guilty unless they can prove otherwise. This legal approach aims to deter littering by placing the burden of proof on the accused, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Penalties for High-Rise Littering
Individuals found guilty of high-rise littering face significant fines. For a first offence, the fine can be up to S$2,000, while a second conviction can result in fines of up to S$4,000. These stringent penalties underscore the government’s commitment to tackling the issue.
Enforcement and Future Implications
Enhanced Surveillance Measures
The use of surveillance cameras by the NEA has proven effective in capturing evidence of high-rise littering. This approach is likely to be expanded to other areas with persistent littering issues, ensuring better enforcement and compliance.
Community Responsibility
These convictions highlight the community’s responsibility in maintaining a clean living environment. Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and report any instances of high-rise littering, contributing to a collective effort to uphold cleanliness and safety standards.
