(PUEBLO, Colo.) — In a massive fireworks crackdown, the Pueblo Police Department (PPD) and Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) seized more than a ton of illegal fireworks during a recent joint operation.
Detectives from both agencies purchased dangerous, illegal fireworks from underground sellers operating in residential neighborhoods. Their efforts led to the seizure of over 2,204 pounds of illegal fireworks, including homemade devices being manufactured and sold out of a suburban home.
Among the items confiscated were 29 bags filled with hundreds of federally banned M-Type devices. According to police, bomb experts confirmed that these devices were packed with highly sensitive explosive powders that pose a major risk if exposed to heat, shock, or friction.
Officers also executed a search warrant at a second location where several boxes of legal consumer fireworks were found. However, authorities suspect that illegal manufacturing was also taking place there. Due to the volume of fireworks seized, three shipping containers were needed to secure and transport the items.
“ATF actively regulates and investigates the illegal use of explosives as part of its core mission to protect the public from violent crime,” PPD said. “It is illegal under federal law to manufacture, store, distribute, receive, or transport explosives without a federal explosives license or permit.”
PPD encourages the public to report suspicious explosive materials by calling the ATF tip line at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477). More information on illegal explosive investigations and M-Type devices is available on the ATF’s official website.
In Colorado, selling or using illegal fireworks is a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by fines between $50 and $750 and/or up to six months in jail. More serious offenses—such as setting fires or reckless endangerment—can carry penalties of up to 12 years in prison and $750,000 in fines.
The investigation into possible criminal charges remains ongoing.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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