BY San Jose Mercury News

Dumpster diving will soon be illegal in Modesto.
Beginning in March, police will be authorized to arrest or issue $500 fines to people caught digging through garbage cans under a new ordinance approved this week.

Supporters of the measure say it will prevent identity theft and reduce blight, but opponents say making dumpster diving a crime is excessive

The Modesto City Council approved the ordinance by a 5-2 vote Tuesday night.

----------------------------------------------------------------------