Police seize 600 lbs of illegal fireworks from Fillmore residence

On Wednesday, June 28th, Ventura County authorities seized 600 pounds of illegal fireworks along with several firearms from a residence in the 600 block of Fourth Street in Fillmore.

Earlier this month, detectives said they received information that indicated illegal fireworks were being sold by Alfredo Avalos from his Fillmore residence. After an investigation, detectives believed Avalos was in possession of large amounts of fireworks that are illegal in the state of California and received a search warrant for his home in the 600 block of Fourth Street.

According to authorities, “fireworks were found throughout the residence, including the kitchen, garage, and the bedroom of a minor child.” The warrant was served at 7 a.m. on June 28 and Avalos was not present at the time.

An AK-47 assault rifle, a stolen .22-caliber rifle, and an unregistered .22-caliber rifle were also found in the residence, according to the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

Avalos later turned himself in and was arrested on the charges of felony possession of an explosive, misdemeanor possession of illegal fireworks and pyrotechnic devices, misdemeanor unlawful transfer of a firearm, felony possession of an assault weapon and misdemeanor receiving stolen property.

Avalos was booked into Ventura County Jail with bail set at $20,000.

Authorities remind the public that illegal fireworks are a significant threat of injury and fire, posing a great danger to not only yourself and your family but the public as well. Only “Safe and Sane” fireworks bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal may be used and enjoyed throughout Ventura County.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office offered several safety tips to ensure you and your loved ones enjoy a safe Fourth of July celebration:

If you witness a crime or fire in progress involving illegal fireworks, call your local authorities by dialing 9-1-1. Only “Safe and Sane” fireworks bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal are legal in the city of Fillmore. All other fireworks, including altered Safe and Sane fireworks and those that explode or leave the ground, are illegal. Kids should not play with fireworks. Fireworks are intended for use by adults in open spaces with plenty of active supervision for every child present. Always have a bucket of water on hand to dispose of fireworks and a hose connected to water ready in case of fire. Do not place fireworks in trash containers. Fireworks, including sparklers and flares, can cause serious burns as well as blast injuries that can permanently impair vision and hearing. Teach your children what to do if their clothing catches on fire-“stop, drop and roll”-and how to call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

All other fireworks are illegal in the state and violators may be cited for violating the city municipal code and subject to a $1,000.00 fine, or subject to arrest.