Watsonville police made a major breakthrough Tuesday in their fireworks enforcement campaign, seizing almost 1,000 pounds of illegal fireworks.
In a news release, Watsonville Police Department said officers uncovered a group of individuals, including a teenager, suspected of distributing dangerous fireworks throughout Watsonville and across Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey counties.
The investigation led officers to a home in Hollister, where officers found a large amount of fireworks, along with an illegal assault rifle and approximately 1.1 pounds of cocaine.
As the WPD fireworks operation continues during what local fire agencies expect will be a busy fire season, the agency reminds residents that:
- Fines can reach up to $1,000 per violation.
- Property owners and tenants may be cited.
- Anonymous tips can be submitted via the department’s mobile app or by calling 831-471-1151.
- The department’s drone team is actively monitoring and can issue citations without officers present.
The case is ongoing and is being forwarded to the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s office for prosecution.
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