CalFire Seizes 10 Tons Of Illegal Fireworks In Massive Bust

SACRAMENTO — Investigators with CalFire and the state fire marshal's office arrested a man accused of trying to enter the state with a moving truck packed full of illegal fireworks, authorities announced Thursday.

CalFire said an attentive employee at a Mono County agriculture inspection station noticed something was amiss and notified the fire marshal, CalFire prevention officers and the sheriff's office last Thursday.

At the inspection station, officers reported an estimated 20,000 pounds of illegal fireworks inside the truck and arrested the driver.

California law bars the sale, transportation and use of any fireworks that do not have a legitimate "Safe and Sane" seal. Importers of legal devices are also required to obtain a license from the fire marshal's office and file a notice before they transport any shipment. The man accused in the case faces felony charges and, if convicted, could see fines high as $50,000 and a one-year jail sentence.

"The use of illegal fireworks continuously poses a major threat that results in firefighters responding to hundreds of fires and medical emergencies every year," said Daniel Berlant, Acting State Fire Marshal. "It is important to know the law. California has zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks."

CalFire noted that improper fireworks use is responsible for millions of dollars in property losses and injuries every year. Large crops and dry vegetation are especially at risk, and can help fuel devastating fires across the state.

Authorities are withholding the man's identity pending further investigation.