Medina PD makes multiple arrests for fireworks
‘We are asking the public to please keep yourself, your loved ones, and other village residents and their property safe by not discharging fireworks.’ – Chief Chad Kenward
Press Release, Medina Police Chief Chad Kenward
MEDINA – In recent weeks, our agency, along with several surrounding agencies, have received multiple fireworks complaints from citizens.
These incidents are happening at multiple locations, and it can be difficult for officers to identify a specific suspect who set off these devices. Unfortunately, this is not an issue that is isolated to the Village of Medina, and though our investigations, we believe that a majority of these illegal devices are being purchased outside of the area. We assure you that we are as frustrated with the problem as you are.
Over the weekend, additional officers were put on the street. These officers were able to take some enforcement action, and effected multiple arrests in direct relation to these situations. Here is a brief recap of the charges filed by our agency over the weekend, and the corresponding number of arrests:
Unlawful Possession of Fireworks (four arrests), Disorderly Conduct (unreasonable noise), Criminal Nuisance (2 arrests), Obstructing Governmental Administration (2 arrests), Resisting Arrest (2 arrests) and Escape.
Due to current legislation, arrests for these offenses are non-bailable offenses, meaning, after the arrest, subjects are released to appear in court at a later date.
We have had multiple instances where arrested individuals have been believed to have continued setting off fireworks after being arrested and released. Despite these difficulties, our agency will continue enforcing NYS law in regard to possessing and discharging illegal fireworks. It should be strongly noted, that individuals who maintain any premise where this illegal activity is conducted may also be charged with Criminal Nuisance, even if they are not the ones discharging the fireworks.
It should go without saying, but fireworks are very dangerous. Annually, approximate 10,000 people are hurt or killed by fireworks, including 1/3 who are under the age of 16 years old. In addition, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires each year. We are asking the public to please keep yourself, your loved ones, and other village residents and their property safe by not discharging fireworks.
