Ahead of the July 4 Holiday, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office Illegal Firework Task Force has recently concluded a six-week operation to remove illegal fireworks from the county.
During this operation, they accomplished the following:
- 7,448 lbs of Dangerous Fireworks removed
- 129 lbs of Explosive Precursor Powders seized
- 145 Destructive Devices confiscated
- 31 Investigations initiated
- 29 Charges forwarded
- 13 Physical arrests made
- 7 Firearms taken off the streets
- 4 Citations issued
- 3 Search warrants executed
- 2 Suppressors found
- 1 Explosives Lab dismantled
Law en enforcement thanked the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, and the Escalon, French Camp, and Mountain House Fire departments for their support.
Modesto Police Make Arrest Fireworks Bust
On Wednesday, June 26, Officers assigned to the Modesto Police Department’s Street Gang Unit arrested 34-year-old Mark Tobar of Modesto for possession and sales of illegal fireworks.
Investigators had learned Tobar was selling illegal fireworks via various social media outlets. Tobar had agreed to sell these illegal fireworks to Investigators. Tobar was taken into custody and a search warrant was served related to this investigation. 580 pounds of illegal fireworks, including mortars and M80’s, were located and turned over to the Stanislaus County Bomb Squad for processing and destruction.
Tobar was booked for several felony charges related to possession of explosive devices and possession of illegal fireworks with the intent to sell.
As we approach the 4th of July holiday week police said they want to ensure all of our community has a safe and enjoyable holiday celebrating our nations independence. There are several area aerial fireworks shows, or even drone shows, you can attend to celebrate. If you choose to celebrate with fireworks, please ensure they have the safe and sane labels and are purchased from one of the many fireworks booths in and around our city. Many of these stands are fundraising opportunities for local organizations.
With penalties up to $4,000 and/or potential criminal prosecution, police remind you not to get burned by using or possessing illegal fireworks.
Contra Costa County Fireworks + 4th of July Event