A cooperative sting between the Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office and State Police led to the seizure of $3,000 of illegal fireworks and arrest of eight people.
The sting was conducted by both uniformed and plain-clothed officers from both agencies between Tuesday, June 30 and Thursday, July 2. According to Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Alan Brown, officers witnessed Delaware residents purchasing fireworks at Pennsylvania fireworks outlets and then illegally bringing them into Delaware.
The sale, possession and use of fireworks -- including sparklers -- are illegal in Delaware without a permit.
In total, eight people were arrested in the three-day operation. The fireworks seized will be kept as evidence and then ultimately destroyed, according to Brown.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, 42 percent of injuries from fireworks happen to people under the age of 15. June and July are the two months that fireworks accidents most frequently occur.
One must obtain the necessary permits to possess and discharge fireworks in Delaware.
Anyone who wants more information about fireworks laws in Delaware can contact the Fire Marshal's Office at (302) 323-5375.
