HONOLULU (KHON2) — Hawaii’s illegal fireworks problem has once again been thrust into the spotlight. On Friday, Jan. 3, the Department of Law Enforcement submitted a report to state lawmakers, requesting millions in funding for expanded enforcement.
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According to the DLE’s Illegal Fireworks Task Force, illegal fireworks are being smuggled into Hawaii daily and year-round. The lucrative business can bring in about a million dollars for every container that arrives here.
“You know, for some people, that’s their annual income,” said Jordan Lowe, Director for the DLE.
HPD reports fewer fireworks arrests, citations
The DLE is preparing to ask the legislature for more money to fund a full-time explosive enforcement section to tackle this underground market. The section would include a team of six investigators and support staff.
They’re also preparing to ask the legislature for funding to create a statewide explosives and fireworks laboratory to complement its existing forensic drug testing lab.