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Sheriff’s representative says drone patrol observed fireworks but most activity came from outside Villa Park; residents press for stronger enforcement
Summary
An Orange County Sheriff representative described drone use over July 2–4 that observed fireworks and resulted in warnings but no citations; two residents told the council they experienced recurring dangerous fireworks near their homes and pushed for more enforcement and citations.
An Orange County Sheriff representative reported to the council that between June 18 and July 24 the department logged 331 incidents and used drone patrols over the July 2–4 holiday period to observe and warn people for fireworks activity. "July 2, we had the drone up... they observed 3 incidents of fireworks, and 2 people were warned," the captain said, summarizing patrol results and stressing the drone’s role in operational safety.
During public comment, resident Thomas Britton (9881 Orchard Lane) disputed the captain’s characterization that the holiday was largely calm. Britton said he has had a "4 year ongoing battle" with serious fireworks near his home and presented photos and videos he said show aerial projectiles reaching roughly 80–100 feet and producing loud concussions. "We are allowing dangerous fireworks to be used," he said, and asked for more effective enforcement and follow‑up from deputies.
Another resident, Keith Susie Kasenhorse of Hillcrest Avenue, told the council certain streets experienced repeated illegal fireworks that disrupted pets and families and urged stronger action. Council members acknowledged the complaints, noted the sheriff’s loss of deputies to mutual aid on July 4, and discussed options for increased citation activity next year. The sheriff said the drone program is likely to be used again and that the department intends to refine operational plans for future holidays.
