As fireworks pose a significant wildfire threat in Southern California, Los Angeles authorities are undertaking sting operations to target anyone attempting to sell high-powered explosives from out of state.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has been using social media to track down suspected fireworks distributors while posing as possible consumers.
During Wednesday’s operation, deputies cornered a car at a gas station in Paramount after discovering the suspect was attempting to sell illegal explosives.
When they opened the person’s trunk, they discovered illegal pyrotechnics. “It’s actually more common than you’d think,” sheriff’s department spokesperson Allan Mata stated. “There are many people selling illegal fireworks, and they’re really easy to find.”
When deputies apprehended the person in Paramount, it was evident that he was selling fireworks. They also found a personal firearm, a taser, and some brass knuckles,” said Sgt. Miguel Meza of the sheriff’s department.
In the past two weeks, the sheriff’s department has seized nearly 3,000 pounds of illegal explosives and arrested 49 individuals for selling them. Fireworks are cool, we all agree. However, there is a danger to these types of explosives,” Mata warned. Two weeks ago, someone lost a hand while trying to light illicit fireworks.” Many homes are also catching fire,” Mata said.
Those found attempting to sell the explosives face a punishment of up to $5,000 in LA County.
The LA County Sheriff’s Department hopes the sting operations convey a clear message that illegal fireworks are not tolerated in the county. “We are very concerned about the safety of not only ourselves, but also the residents of the community,” Mata stated.
According to California regulators, pyrotechnics have caused more than 1,200 fires and over $30 million in property damage since 2024.
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