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San Juan Capistrano council asks staff to study stiffer penalties for illegal fireworks after public safety concerns
Summary
Following public testimony from an equestrian who said illegal fireworks endangered her horse during an emergency veterinary procedure, the City Council unanimously directed staff to work with the Sheriff’s Department and return with recommendations to strengthen penalties and re-assess the city’s fireworks ordinance; staff said any changes would be post–July 4 and brought back later this summer.
Councilmember Frias introduced a council-initiated item on May 20 asking staff to evaluate increased penalties and reassess the city’s existing ordinance to deter illegal fireworks storage and discharge. Council discussed enforcement challenges and the limits of catching offenders in the act; staff reported they already coordinate with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and OCFA on patrols, educational messages and enforcement details.
Sandy Weaver, a 35-year resident and longtime equestrian, told the council she and her family have used local trails for decades and…
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