MADERA - Over the last few weeks a special task force of law enforcement officers has been on the streets of Madera looking for illegal fireworks. The net result was a much smaller show of aerial fireworks blasting over the roofs of residential house subdivisions and less firework related fires on the Forth of July.
The Madera Police Department has brought attention to the large problem that illegal fireworks cause in our community, through education and targeting those who choose to sell and purchase illegal fireworks. During this time their special task force has seized over five hundred pounds of illegal fireworks by posing as potential buyers and sellers on social media.
From June 29th through July 5th the police department had an increased presence of up to 15 officers each evening targeting violations specifically related to the use and possession of illegal fireworks. They maintain a zero tolerance policy for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. It is illegal to sell, transport, or use fireworks that do not carry the "Safe and Sane" seal. Violators are subject to a $1,000 fine and or up to one year in jail.
During the last few weeks officers have issued several citations for illegal fireworks usage. Sergeant Josiah Arnold of the Madera Police department said, “We'd rather not write any tickets for this, but unfortunately some people have ignored our warnings about the risk caused by illegal fireworks. Remember that we've already had one house fire as a result of the relatively small fireworks. We've doubled our staffing this week and will be out in force to make this Fourth July a safe one for our community.”
Along with several fireworks citations, this special task force has also arrested an armed robbery suspect, two gang members with guns, two DIU suspects as well as several people for methamphetamine and or warrants. This enforcement was preceded by Craig’s List and Face Book stings on people buying and selling illegal fireworks that appear to have put a pretty big dent in the problem this year
Don’t use illegal fireworks, and please report those who are. Call MPD at (559) 675-4220 or send a direct message via Facebook to report any violations.
