Long Beach Detectives Seize Fireworks Worth $250,000

LONG BEACH, CA – Long Beach police Thursday displayed thousands of pounds of "high-powered" fireworks worth about $250,000 following seizures at storage facilities in Pico Rivera and Santa Fe Springs.

The seizures were made about 4 p.m. Wednesday by detectives conducting an investigation into fireworks possession and sales in East Long Beach, according to the Long Beach Police Department, which reported that two people were detained.

The investigation led detectives to the two storage facilities, where warrants were served, police said.

"An 82-year-old man from Paramount and a 54-year-old man from West Covina were both detained and may be facing felony charges pending further investigation," according to a police statement.

The seized fireworks were displayed to media at Long Beach Fire Department Headquarters.

"We will be out in force in the days leading up to, and on July 4th, to ensure compliance with the Long Beach City ordinance that bans all fireworks, including those deemed 'safe and sane," police said. "Anyone found in violation of the city ordinance may be cited and/or arrested. Those found in violation may face a $1,000 fine, (be) sentenced to six months in jail, or both."

Fines could be increased depending on the fireworks' classification.

Fireworks can be disposed of at collection station at all fire station or at Lifeguard Headquarters at 2100 E. Ocean Blvd. from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

City News Service contributed to this post; Image via Shutterstock