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Last updated on Monday, July 2, 2012
(INDIANAPOLIS) - Those caught violating the city’s emergency ban on fireworks could be fined up to $2,500 or face criminal charges, police stressed Sunday.
Mayor Greg Ballard issued an emergency order Saturday banning the use of personal fireworks due to drought conditions and the threat of fire.
Indianapolis police said Sunday that officers dispatched on runs involving the use of fireworks will first remind violators about the emergency declaration and warn them to stop.
"This warning and explanation of the ban is to help citizens understand the severity of the issue and to hopefully provide a peaceful resolution to the problem," department spokesman Officer Anthony Schneider said in a news release.
If a person violates the fireworks ban again, police could issue a civil violation, which carries a fine of up to $2,500.
The violator could also be arrested on a class B misdemeanor charge, which carries a possible jail sentence of up to 180 days and a fine of up to $1,000.
Those wishing to report a violation of the fireworks ban are asked to call the Indianapolis police non-emergency number at 317-327-3811, not 911.
"911 is intended for emergencies only and should be used as such," Schneider said.
Nineteen other counties had issued emergency orders banning the use of personal fireworks.
Indianapolis' ban does not include professional fireworks displays.
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