ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Illegal dumping continues to create eyesores across Albany, and city leaders said that it’s not the only crime on the rise. Vandalized donation boxes are also becoming a growing problem, and officials are calling on residents to step up before the situation gets worse.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta donation boxes across the city have been broken into and misused. Instead of dropping off gently used clothing for those in need, people have entered the boxes — removing items and leaving unwanted clothing scattered on the ground.

“We do have a problem with people breaking in, vandalizing the boxes, trying to get items out,” said Jwana Washington, Executive Director Keep Albany Dougherty Beautiful.

For residents like Curtis Simmons, who lives on Branch Road, the problem doesn’t stop there. He said he sees trash and debris dumped near wooded areas regularly.

“It’s bad, it’s terribly bad,” Simmons said. “When you get a spot like this — nobody lives in the area, and you have access to go back into a wooded area to dump — this is what you get. Shingles, household clothing, boxes... You name it, it’s out here.”

City leaders said they have tried to get the message out by holding town halls and sharing information about proper disposal sites, but the problem persists.

“It’s not resonating with the citizens of this community,” said Ward 1 City Commissioner Jon Howard. “You’ve got to take pride in your community. You’ve got to have some connection with your neighbors. See something, say something.”

Officials reminded residents that there are resources available for those in need. Instead of vandalizing donation boxes, people can turn to places like the Salvation Army or Goodwill for clothing, food and shelter assistance.

Residents can also dial 311 for bulky item pickups or to report illegal dumping.

For those who continue to dump trash or vandalize donation bins, officials warned that hefty fines are coming.

“We do have addresses, with names on them,” Simmons said.

City leaders said they are determined to hold violators accountable — and that they will find you.

Have a news tip or see an error that needs correction? Let us know. Please include the article’s headline in your message.

To stay up to date on all the latest news as it develops, follow WALB on Facebook and X (Twitter). For more South Georgia news, download the WALB News app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Copyright 2025 WALB. All rights reserved.