Sacramento County Deputies Seize 1,500 Pounds of Illegal Fireworks, $150,000 Cash, and Narcotics

Sacramento, CA – Sacramento County Sheriff’s Central Division Problem Oriented Policing (POP) Deputies seized approximately 1,500 pounds of illegal fireworks, an estimated $150,000 in cash, and several ounces of cocaine during a targeted investigation over the Fourth of July weekend. The operation focused on combating the sale and usage of illicit pyrotechnics across the county.

The significant seizure occurred after deputies served a search warrant at a residence in south Sacramento. The confiscated fireworks included dangerous types such as M80s and M1000s, which are known for their high explosive yield. The Sheriff's Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) team was called to assist with the safe collection and proper disposal of the hazardous materials.

Authorities emphasized the extreme dangers posed by illegal fireworks, citing their high likelihood of causing fires and endangering lives, homes, and businesses. Sacramento Metro Fire officials reported responding to hundreds of fire calls during the holiday period, with illegal fireworks suspected as the cause for many, including a commercial warehouse fire in South Sacramento. Battalion Chief Chris Vestal noted the chaotic scenes, including instances where first responders were targeted with fireworks.

This proactive enforcement by the Sheriff's Office aligns with broader efforts across California to crack down on illegal fireworks. State and local agencies have ramped up enforcement, implementing increased fines—some reaching up to $10,000 per violation—and deploying technologies like drones to identify offenders. Governor Gavin Newsom's office reported seizing over 600,000 pounds of illegal fireworks statewide before the holiday, more than double the previous year.

The Sacramento County Sheriff's Office stated that this remains an ongoing investigation, and arrests related to the seizure are expected to be made in the near future. The incident underscores the persistent challenges and dangers associated with illegal fireworks, particularly during California's dry fire season.