West Covina police have seized about 9,300 pounds of illegal fireworks, arrested a Fullerton man and found an unregistered handgun between June and the first week of July, authorities announced Thursday, July 3.
Detectives, patrol officers and an arson investigator from the West Covina Fire Department conducted four enforcement operations ahead of the July 4th holiday.
“These efforts are part of a citywide initiative to prevent injuries, fires, and property damage during the holiday season,” Lt. Tim Rodgers said.
Three of the operations led to the seizure of 1,300 pounds of illegal fireworks and a gun, according to Rodgers.
The fourth led them to a home in the 1300 block of Sherway Street. They served a search warrant and discovered approximately 8,000 pounds of illegal mortar-style fireworks, he said.
Timothy Tillman, 42, of Fullerton, was arrested at the scene for charges related to the possession and intent to distribute illegal fireworks, Rodgers said.
Booking records show Tillman was arrested the afternoon of July 1 and booked at West Covina jail. He was cited and released that night.
Police didn’t say when they conducted the three other operations and where the rest of the fireworks were found.
All fireworks are illegal in West Covina, Rodgers said.
To report illegal fireworks, call the West Covina Police at 626-939-8500.