Three suspects were taken into custody June 26 in connection with a seizure of $260,000 worth of illegal fireworks, according to the Los Banos Police Department.
Detectives served several search warrants and arrested three adult males.
Mellon Moseley III, 55, and Cruz Flores, 23, both of Los Banos, were arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of more than 5,000 pounds of dangerous fireworks and possession of illegal explosives. Los Banos resident Lindbergh Corpuz Arrocena, 60, was arrested on suspicion of possession of illegal explosives.
Cmdr. Justin Melden said police have evidence that Moseley and Flores are connected to harboring the illegal fireworks, and Arrocena allegedly purchased some of the banned pyrotechnics. All three men were taken to the Los Banos Police Department Jail.
The arrests follow an investigation that led to the June 20 discovery of 20,000 pounds of illegal fireworks at a storage facility on the 1500 block of Ortigalita Road. Melden said the illegal fireworks have a value of $260,000.
The seized fireworks will be transferred to the California Fire, Arson and Bomb Unit for disposal and destruction.
Melden said the investigation into the illicit pyrotechnics is ongoing, and more arrests could be made if detectives discover further evidence that leads to additional suspects.
In California legal fireworks have a designation of Safe and Sane. Local jurisdictions regulate if and when fireworks can be used.
Legal fireworks can be purchased until 8 p.m. July 4 from selected nonprofits at fireworks booths scattered around Los Banos. Legal fireworks are not allowed to be used in Los Banos after 10 p.m. on July 4.
Police said anyone found in possession of illegal or dangerous fireworks will not only be subject to criminal prosecution, but will also face a $1,250 citation per violation.
If you have any information on the possession or distribution of illegal fireworks, police are asking you to contact LBPD at 209-827-7070.
