Authorities in Santa Ana, one of Southern California’s largest cities, seized nearly 1,300 pounds of illegal fireworks over the Fourth of July weekend with the help of drones, Santa Ana Police Department said on X on July 7.
“According to [Orange County Sheriff’s Department Hazardous Devices Section], this was the largest fireworks seizure in Orange County,” authorities said. “Today, [the Hazardous Devices Section] assisted our department with safely disposing of the fireworks.”
Authorities said nearly 200 citations were issued for the illegal fireworks. Most of them were located with the help of drone operators who identified the perpetrators for 107 of the citations.
The Santa Ana police also had help from patrol officers and other law enforcement teams.
Prior to the weekend, the city said possession or use of illegal fireworks could result in a minimum fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months in jail. Police didn’t reveal what punishment was dealt to those who were caught.
On July 3, authorities said patrol officers searched two Anaheim residences and uncovered 550 illegal fireworks weighing an estimated 650 pounds. They posted a video to X documenting the explosive materials.
California’s Department of Public Health said in 2023 it had 200 hospitalizations and 718 emergency department visits because of firework-related injuries.
The city of Santa Ana doesn’t outright ban fireworks but allows those with a “Safe and Sane” seal that are known to be safer than traditional fireworks.
The city did put restrictions on the usage of fireworks past 10 p.m. during the holiday weekend and past 9 p.m. on the Fourth of July.
As Orange County is a popular holiday destination, other cities there also prepared for illegal fireworks and unlawful behavior.
“When using fireworks this holiday it’s important to practice firework safety to prevent the possibility of injury,” Orange County Sheriff Jon Mina said.
Newport Beach, two towns over, designated public safety zones where illegal fireworks, public drinking, and other violations would result in triple fines.
The city said it planned and prepared for the holiday months ahead, increasing police and fire staffing, and getting assistance from other law enforcement agencies.
The individuals shot fireworks and mortars into crowds and at police officers, one of whom was hit by a mortar and had to be evaluated by the Newport Beach Fire Department.
Among other illegal activities, the youths engaged in fights, looted a grocery store, and uprooted palm trees.
“Those responsible for inciting the crowd, engaging in violent and criminal behavior, and threatening public safety were taken into custody and will be held accountable,” the city said.
