Hyattsville, Md. – On Tuesday afternoon, Annie West, a 78‑year‑old resident of the 2200 block of Queens Chapel Road, discovered two heavy mattresses propped against her fence. The mattresses, later found to be infested with cockroaches, were left by three men who arrived in a dark‑colored Chevrolet Silverado.
Surveillance captures illegal dumping
West’s home surveillance system recorded the entire incident. The video shows the pickup truck pulling into the alley beside her house, two men in neon safety vests unloading the mattresses, and a third individual driving the truck away. One of the unloaders had a taper‑fade haircut with waves; the other was bald. After placing the mattresses against the fence, the pair returned to the truck, which sped off.
County response raises concerns
West contacted the Prince George’s County Department of Public Works for assistance. County staff informed her that, because the alley abuts her property, an abutting‑property ordinance requires the property owner to clear the debris. West, who relies on a cane and walker, said the requirement is unreasonable given her physical limitations.
“It really upset me because I want them to come move their trash,” West said. “D.C. has free dumps. We have to pay to dump.” She added, “That means anybody can come and dump all the dumps back there and we have to clean it? I don’t understand.”
Attempts to get clarification stalled
Efforts to reach the Department of Public Works for further clarification have been unsuccessful; callers reported that the phone line was disconnected. Local authorities are now urging anyone with information about the suspects or the incident to contact the Prince George’s County Police Department.
Broader implications for senior residents
The incident highlights challenges faced by senior citizens dealing with illegal dumping and the burden of local ordinances that place cleanup responsibilities on property owners. While the county’s abutting‑property law is intended to keep alleys clear, critics argue it can unfairly impact vulnerable residents who lack the means to remove large, hazardous items.
Community members are watching the situation closely, hoping for a resolution that protects seniors and deters future illegal dumping. The police department has asked anyone who recognizes the individuals in the video or has additional details to come forward.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
