Public warnings issued in crackdown on illegal fireworks for July 4
Officials are cracking down hard on illegal pyrotechnics, warning the public that if they’re caught even possessing a banned firework, they can go to jail and face thousands of dollars in fines.
With the Fourth of July weekend just days away, authorities are reminding the public that illegal fireworks are dangerous and could easily spark a fire in drought-stricken Southland communities.
For the last few weeks, law enforcement agencies throughout the region have been cracking down on illegal fireworks sales, seizing tons of the pyrotechnics before the July 4 holiday.
San Bernardino County fire officials announced Wednesday that they had confiscated approximately 10 tons of illegal fireworks along the Interstate 15 corridor. Authorities issued 101 citations and made three arrests in connection with the fireworks crackdown.
Last week in Los Angeles, where all fireworks are illegal, authorities confiscated more than a 1,000 pounds of fireworks, which led to criminal charges being filed against several people. And last month, about 10 tons of illegal fireworks worth at least $100,000 was seized from a business in Pico Rivera.
In Pasadena, city officials reminded residents that violators caught with illegal fireworks could face arrest, have their vehicles impounded, be jailed and/or be fined up to $50,000.
Law enforcement agencies throughout Southern California warned that they planned to heavily patrol the region Friday. For those who don’t plan on going to a sanctioned, organized show, authorities are reminding the public that only “safe and sane” fireworks are legal to purchase.
For breaking news in Los Angeles and California, follow @VeronicaRochaLA, or email her at veronica.rocha@latimes.com.
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