Porterville Police Seize Over 2,300 Pounds of Illegal Fireworks, Two Arrested
On June 21, 2024, at approximately 3:00 P.M., Porterville Police Department Detectives conducted a search warrant operation at a business located in the 800 block of West Olive Avenue, Porterville. This operation was part of an investigation into the possession and sales of illegal fireworks. During the search, detectives discovered 50 pounds of commercial grade aerial fireworks and identified Marten Ghanem, a 26-year-old resident of Visalia, as the individual responsible. Ghanem was also found in possession of an assault rifle with an obliterated serial number and several other firearms.
Further investigation led detectives to the residence of Eric Ceballos-Ramos, a 23-year-old resident of Woodville, located in the sub-100 block of Redwood Court. There, additional aerial fireworks and a firearm with a large capacity magazine were discovered. Detectives continued their investigation to a residence on the 24000 block of Avenue 92 in Terra Bella, where they found over 2,200 pounds of illegal fireworks stored. In total, detectives seized 2,337 pounds of illegal fireworks with an estimated street value of approximately $30,000.
The confiscated fireworks, deemed dangerous and not classified as “Safe and Sane” by the California State Fire Marshal, included mortar-style fireworks, roman candles, and bottle rockets. The Porterville Police Department is collaborating with the Porterville Fire Department and Porterville Code Enforcement to address the illegal sale, possession, and use of these fireworks. The authorities emphasized the significant risks posed by illegal fireworks, including potential injuries, structure and grass fires, and negative impacts on people and animals.
Those involved in illegal fireworks activities face potential criminal charges and administrative fines ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 per Porterville City Ordinance. Homeowners can also be cited for illegal fireworks on their property. The Porterville Police Department will continue efforts to seize illegal fireworks through the Fourth of July.
For more information regarding dangerous fireworks, refer to Section 12505 of the California Health and Safety Code. Anyone with information about illegal fireworks is encouraged to contact the Porterville Police Department at (559) 782-7400.
