Over a Ton of Illegal Fireworks Seized in Pueblo Ahead of July 4th Holiday

Description: Joint Operation Uncovers Homemade Explosives and Underground Sales in Residential Areas... The Pueblo Police Department Released the Following Statement Regarding the Seizure of Illegal Fireworks in Pueblo...

Pueblo Police and Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office Conduct Illegal Fireworks Seizure

Pueblo, CO― Just before the 4th of July holiday, detectives from the Pueblo Police Department’s Special Investigation Division (SID), along with the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigation Narcotics Unit, carried out a joint operation to combat the distribution and sale of illegal fireworks in the City and County of Pueblo. As part of this operation, detectives purchased illegal and dangerous fireworks from underground sellers operating in various residential areas throughout the community.

During the investigation, detectives obtained search warrants and seized over a metric ton—more than 2,204 pounds—of illegal fireworks. They also discovered that "homemade fireworks" were being manufactured and sold at one of the operations, which was located in a suburban residence. A total of 29 bags containing hundreds of M-Type devices were confiscated. 

The Pueblo Metro Bomb Squad, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Denver Field Division Special Agent Bomb Technician and Certified Explosives Specialist assisted with the investigation. Bomb experts confirmed that the M-Type explosive devices, which are also federally illegal, were filled with explosive powders sensitive to heat, shock, and friction. It is important to note that if the suspected flash powder was not stored or handled correctly, there was a high risk of accidental explosions, which posed a serious danger to the public. 

An additional search warrant was issued for a second location. Pueblo Police SWAT, detectives with SID, and Pueblo Metro Bomb Squad executed the warrant without incident. Several boxes of various-sized legal consumer products and suspect the manufacturing of devices was taking place at the location. The large quantity of items required three shipping containers for secure transport. This investigation is ongoing regarding potential criminal charges. 

Local law enforcement agencies regularly enforce state fireworks laws. In Colorado, the sale or use of illegal fireworks is classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor, which can result in a fine of $50 to $750 and/or up to six months in jail. Additionally, violators may have their fireworks seized. Convictions for setting fires and reckless conduct may lead to jail time of up to 12 years and fines of up to $750,000. Municipalities may enforce stricter penalties for violations of their ordinances.

“ATF actively regulates and investigates the illegal use of explosives as part of its core mission to protect the public from violent crime. Illegal explosives are often made by manufacturers without a legal license to operate, then sold without a legal permit. Under federal explosives law, it is illegal to manufacture, store, distribute, receive or transport explosive materials without a federal explosives license or permit (FEL/FEP). If you encounter suspicious explosive devices that meet any of the above criteria, please contact the ATF tip line at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477). You can see and learn more about ATF’s role in investigating illegal explosive devices, including the M-Type devices at https://www.atf.gov/explosives/tools-services-explosives-industry/explosive-products-and-devices/illegal-explosives.”

The information contained in this press release is based on preliminary information available at the time of its drafting. The Pueblo Police Department’s understanding of this incident may change as additional evidence is collected, analyzed, and reviewed. The purpose of this press release is to provide timely information to the public. In consideration of the foregoing, please be advised that any statements expressed herein are subject to change at any time.

 In Colorado, only individuals certified by the Division of Fire Prevention and Control within the Department of Public Safety can conduct public or professional fireworks displays using the following items:

- Firecrackers

- Aerial devices, such as rockets or bottle rockets

- Roman candles

- Cherry bombs

- Mortars or similar items, such as M-80s

Permitted fireworks are non-explosive and are not intended to leave the ground. They are small devices that produce audible or visual effects when lit, including:

- Fountains

- Wheels

- Ground spinners

- Illuminating torches

- Dipped sticks and sparklers

- Snakes or glowworms

- Explosive auto alarms, toy propellants, cigarette loads, strike-on-box matches, or trick noise makers

- Tube devices that create a shower of sparks no more than 15 feet above the ground

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Photos Courtesy of Pueblo Police Dept.