For the past three years, a Glendale trucking company reportedly collected Arizona’s recycled trash and hauled it to California, exploiting its Resources Recycling and Recovery program for more than $16 million.

Arizona’s Department of Public Safety, working with California authorities, arrested 49-year-old Miguel Bustillos of Bustillos' Trucking, his driver 57-year old Anthony Sanchez on Nov. 7.

A third suspect operating out of Los Angeles was also arrested. All three men are facing felony fraud charges.

During three search warrants, DPS says it seized nearly 28 tons of empty beverage containers, plastic and aluminum with a recyclable value worth more than $42,000.

More Stories From KJZZ

• Phoenix Accepts Bids For Plastics Recycling Mill, Combating Landfill Waste
• Q&AZ: What Happens To Items Placed In Phoenix Recycling Bins?