Man Set Off Illegal Fireworks At Ideal Beach: Middletown Police

MIDDLETOWN, NJ — A man and a woman were arrested this past Sunday night, June 28, at Ideal Beach in Middletown after police said they saw them setting off large-scale fireworks shooting more than 100 feet in the air.

Middletown public beaches have also seen a markedly large increase in visitors this season; police said they will be stepping up patrols.

Middletown police were called to Ideal Beach at about 9 p.m. Sunday after someone called in seeing the fireworks. When police got there, they saw a man lighting off the fireworks, which were being launched more than 100 feet into the air.

Police arrested Michael Joseph-Dixon, 23, of Elizabeth and charged him with unlawful possession of fireworks. Police said they found more fireworks and marijuana.

While taking Joseph-Dixon into custody, the officers were approached by Destiny Garner, 18, of Elizabeth. Police say Garner interfered with the officers while the man was being arrested, and grabbed one of the officers by the arm. Police then said she would be charged with obstruction, to which she responded by fleeing. She was apprehended a short time later.

Joseph-Dixon was charged with unlawful possession of fireworks, possession of marijuana in an amount of 50 grams or less, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Garner was charged with obstruction, resisting arrest, underage consumption of alcoholic beverages and disorderly conduct.

Middletown police would also like to remind the public that, despite recent changes in the law, many fireworks are still illegal in New Jersey.

These fireworks are now legal in New Jersey: Ground-based sparkling devices and novelties such as sparklers, smoke balls, non- fountains and other sparkler devices, poppers, snakes and snaps or pop-its.

Other commonly-known fireworks such as bottle rockets, firecrackers, roman candles, and mortar tubes are still illegal.

Middletown beaches are open 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Bonfires are not permitted. Also, visitors are reminded to remove their garbage upon leaving the beach so that it can be kept clean as possible for all visitors to enjoy. Middletown police will be increasing patrols of the beaches and parks this summer to make sure the beaches are kept clean and safe.