News Releases

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced today that a tip developed by a Community Violence Reduction Division investigator has led to the seizure of 14,000 pounds of illegal fireworks ahead of the 4th of July weekend.

“By embedding our prosecutors and investigators in the communities that we serve, we were able to secure valuable information that led to the safe removal of thousands of pounds of illegal fireworks from an Azusa neighborhood,” District Attorney Gascón said. “I am grateful that we could assist local law enforcement in protecting this community from the potential dangers posed by illegal fireworks.”

Working with the Azusa Police Department and the Los Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s departments, investigators with the LADA’s Bureau of Investigation also seized in excess of $10,000 in cash and an illegal firearm during the June 27th operation.

One person was detained and the investigation into the possession and sale of illegal fireworks is ongoing. Fireworks are illegal in Los Angeles County unincorporated communities and many cities in the county because of the brush fires, house fires, millions of dollars in damages, injuries, and even death they may cause. Residents are encouraged to report any illegal fireworks to law enforcement.

The fireworks seized were being stored at a home and a storage facility in Azusa. Twenty-seven homes were evacuated while the explosives were safely recovered and disposed.

The tip that led to this seizure serves as an example of the benefits of the new Community Violence Reduction Division being embedded in the communities, they serve by working with all of the residents, county and law enforcement partners.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation is amongst the top five largest law enforcement agencies in the county, with nearly 250 sworn peace officers.