NJ Homeowner Set Off Illegal Fireworks In Spite Of Police Warning, Now He Faces Charges

NORTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — A North Brunswick homeowner is facing charges and a bill for cleanup costs after he kept setting off illegal fireworks on the Fourth of July despite a police warning to stop, officials say.

North Brunswick police received multiple calls about apparent illegal fireworks in the Beverly Avenue area, Mayor Francis M. Womack said. Police found the residence believed to be responsible and told the homeowner to stop, Womack said, and issued a warning before leaving to respond to other calls.

"Unfortunately, it appears that the homeowner chose not to comply and continued setting off fireworks after officers left the area," the mayor said.

Womack said police have continued to investigate the incident and detectives followed up at the home, collecting video and photographic evidence, and issuing complaints and summonses.

Patch has requested more information on what charges have been filed.

"The Police Department has also been coordinating with the township's Office of Community Development and Fire Marshal's Office to determine whether additional enforcement action is warranted," the mayor's statement said. Township crews cleaned up fireworks debris from the road and officials said the person responsible will be billed for the cleanup costs.

Womack noted the Fourth of July is one of the busiest nights of the year for the North Brunswick Police Department, which fields dozens of calls for assistance and service throughout the night.

"We want residents to know that this matter has been taken seriously from the beginning and that it remains under active investigation," he said.

"Quality-of-life issues matter," Womack said. "They have a direct impact on our neighborhoods and on the residents who call North Brunswick home. The Township is committed to holding individuals accountable when they disregard the law and disrupt the community, and we appreciate everyone who took the time to report this incident."

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