Over 79,000 Pounds of Illegal Fireworks Seized At California-Nevada Border

Almost 80,000 pounds of illegal fireworks have been seized over a two-month enforcement effort at the California-Nevada border, reports City News Service.

The effort was aimed to reduce the chance of injuries, fires, and property damage illegal fireworks often cause.

State and local fire officials announced that 79,411 pounds of fireworks had been seized during a news conference in La Canada Flintridge on Thursday, July 1.

The news came just one day after a large explosion in a South Los Angeles neighborhood was caused by the Los Angeles Police Department bomb squad while trying to dispose of illegal fireworks.

"There is no excuse for breaking the law and attempting to transport illegal fireworks into California," said California State Fire Marshal Mike Richwine. "The illegal fireworks our peace officers have seized puts a dent into the potential devastating injuries, fires and damage to property that these dangerous devices pose."

In addition to seizing fireworks at the border, officers also conducted 932 traffic stops. During those stops, they issued 215 citations for the possession of dangerous fireworks and other violations. Three people were arrested for what was called "various crimes."

Officials hoped Thursday's announcement will send a message that California has zero-tolerance for illegal fireworks and will enforce the law.