LB Dispatch Center Received 639 Fireworks Related Calls b/w July 1-4 (Down 35%); LBPD Issued 36 Fireworks Related Citations (No Arrests) July 4 Following Council Decision To Rely On "Celebrate Safely" Messages Without Pursuing Administrative Enforcement

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(July 6, 2019, 8:15 a.m.) -- A July 5 city management news release indicates that the LB's Dispatch Center received 639 fireworks-related calls from July 1 through July 4 (a figure down 35% from 2018 when the Dispatch Center received 979 calls over the three day period in 2018.)

The release indicates that on July 4, 2019, LBPD issued 36 fireworks-related citations (unclear if for misdemeanor or infraction on what specific charges.) No arrests indicated for fireworks-related actions. The release indicates that in the weeks leading up to Indepedence Day [exact dates not clear], LBPD investigations resulted in eight arrests and 30 citations [unclear whether for sales or use and if so for what charges and what types of devices.]

As previously reported by LBREPORT.com, on March 15, 2019 non-elected city management (which doesn't set policy) recommended that the City Council not pursue using administrative enforcement -- methods that carry hefty fines but don't require police resources or proof "beyond a reasonable doubt" -- that are used by a number of other cities to deter fireworks scofflaws in LB. LB Councilmembers (who do set policy) accepted management's recommendation without agendizing public discussion, or action(s) to pursue such actions here, such as trying (as a "pilot" program") some selected administrative enforcement methods in disproportionately impacted neighborhoods (Wrigley and parts of NLB.)

Instead, Councilmembers accepted management's recommendation to use increased messaging (via signage and social messaging) to "celebrate safely."

As reported by LBREPORT.com here, Wrigley and parts of North Long Beach were hammered by aerial and ground based bombs on July 4, in some cases beginning several days before.

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