Over 2,300 POUNDS of ILLEGAL PYROTECHNICS SEIZED in Porterville Raid
Porterville Police Department Detectives conducted a search warrant operation at a business situated in the 800 block of West Olive Avenue, Porterville, at approximately 3:00 p.m. on June 21, 2024. This operation was conducted as part of an investigation into the illicit sale and possession of fireworks.
Detectives identified Marten Ghanem, a 26-year-old resident of Visalia, as the individual responsible for the discovery of 50 pounds of commercial-grade aerial pyrotechnics during the search. Additionally, Ghanem was discovered to have numerous firearms, including an assault rifle with an obliterated serial number.
Subsequent investigations directed detectives to the residence of Eric Ceballos-Ramos, a 23-year-old resident of Woodville, situated in the sub-100 block of Redwood Court. Additional aerial pyrotechnics and a firearm with a large capacity magazine were discovered in that location. The detectives pursued their investigation to a residence located on the 24000 block of Avenue 92 in Terra Bella, where they discovered more than 2,200 pounds of illegal pyrotechnics. Detectives confiscated 2,337 pounds of illicit pyrotechnics, which are estimated to have a street value of approximately $30,000.
The California State Fire Marshal confiscated mortar-style fireworks, Roman candles, and bottle rockets, which were classified as “Safe and Sane” but were deemed hazardous. Porterville Code Enforcement, the Porterville Fire Department, and the Porterville Police Department are working together to combat the illegal sale, possession, and use of these pyrotechnics.
The authorities underscored the substantial hazards associated with illegal pyrotechnics, such as the potential for injuries, the establishment of structure and grass fires, and the adverse effects on both humans and animals.
According to the Porterville City Ordinance, individuals who engage in unlawful fireworks activities may be subject to administrative fines and criminal penalties that range from $1,000 to $10,000. Additionally, homeowners may be issued citations for possessing illegal pyrotechnics on their premises. The Porterville Police Department will persist in its endeavors to confiscate illegal fireworks until the Fourth of July crimevoice stated.
Refer to Section 12505 of the California Health and Safety Code for additional information on hazardous pyrotechnics. The Porterville Police Department is encouraging anyone with information regarding illegal pyrotechnics to contact them at (559) 782-7400.