Erie County DA Warning Residents Multiple Charges Could Come Setting off Fireworks

I've heard them, you've probably heard them, many residents around Erie County have heard them. Fireworks going off in residential neighborhoods over the past couple weeks -- sometimes a nightly occurrence in some areas.

Enter your number to get our free mobile app

There have now been enough complaints made that Erie County District Attorney John Flynn has spoken about the potential consequences that one could face setting off fireworks, according to WIVB.

First of all, fireworks are illegal, says Flynn.

“In addition to being a nuisance for neighbors, setting off fireworks in a residential area can have a negative impact on people, animals, and property. Fireworks can cause serious injury or death to people using them or to those nearby,” Flynn said. “Fireworks are explosives that have the protentional to set fire to nearby homes and other properties. The sound of fireworks can cause distress for individuals with PTSD or other medical conditions, pets, and wildlife.”

Here are the charges that someone can face when setting off illegal fireworks in a neighborhood.

The Unlawful Dealing with Fireworks and Dangerous Fireworks: the sale of illegal fireworks is a Class B misdemeanor. The possession of illegal fireworks is a violation.

Disorderly Conduct: this is a violation charge -- intent to cause public inconvenience, annoyance, or alarm.

Section 293 of the Buffalo City Ordinance: this prohibits unreasonable noise, such as fireworks going off after a certain time.

Reckless Endangerment in the Second Degree: this charge is serious, as it falls under a Class D felony. It's defined as "recklessly engaging in conduct that can cause physical harm to another person."

Police have received complaints in Amherst, Buffalo, Cheektowaga, Orchard Park, and West Seneca.

Read the full story at WIVB.