New York Mayor Bill de Blasio Announces Task Force To Crack Down On Illegal Fireworks
For the past few weeks, illegal fireworks have presented a big problem in the city. According to NBC, from June 1 to June 15, there have been at least 1,737 complaints — a big difference from last year which only saw 21 complaints.
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There have been dozens of videos that have been posted online showing angry neighbors complaining about the loud fireworks. One video that has now gone viral shows the disturbing moment a man throws a firecracker at a sleeping homeless man. In another viral clip, shows one guy throwing the sparklers inside someone’s home. New Yorkers are now calling on Mayor Bill de Blasio to fix this big problem and he has now presented a plan.
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On Tuesday, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the formation of a new illegal-fireworks task force that will target suppliers and distributors in an effort to stop the flow of fireworks into the city. According to New York Magazine, the task force will consist of 42 members, including 10 from the NYPD, 12 from the FDNY, and the 20 from the Sheriff’s Bureau. De Blasio explained, “We’re going to start a huge sting operation to go and get these illegal fireworks at the base, meaning everywhere they’re being sold” around New York City and even in surrounding states, de Blasio said in a press conference.
He also encouraged New Yorkers with fireworks complaints to call 311 and only call 911 for “life and death” situations. Bill de Blasio also announced that the city will conduct its own July 4 firework shows in 5-minute installments across the city starting from June 29 to the Independence Day holiday.
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