Illegal Backyard Fire Reported During Statewide Burn Ban, Naugatuck Man Charged: Police

NAUGATUCK, CT — A Naugatuck man accused of burning materials in an "illegal backyard fire" during a statewide burn ban was charged and is scheduled to appear in court, according to police.

In a news release, police said borough police and firefighters responded to a report of an illegal backyard fire in the area of Hillside Avenue on April 21.

According to police, the man accused of lighting the fire was found actively burning building materials.

A statewide burn ban was in effect at the time of the incident due to high winds and dry conditions, according to police.

The man proceeded to ignite the fire in violation of the ban "despite multiple prior warnings regarding illegal outdoor burns," police said.

As a result, he was charged with kindling fire in open air and declaration of burn ban. He was released on a promise to appear in court next month, according to police.

Police also noted the incident was reported at a time when wildfires continue to devastate areas like New Jersey, highlighting the real and present dangers associated with illegal open-air burns.

"Conditions across Connecticut remain dangerously dry, and a statewide prohibition on all open-air burning is currently in effect," police said in a news release. "The Naugatuck Police Department urges all residents to stay informed, act responsibly and understand that these regulations are in place to protect our community and natural resources."