Police Receive Multiple Calls for Illegal Fireworks in Norwood

The received 20 calls regarding the use of illegal fireworks between 6 a.m. Tuesday and 6 a.m. Thursday according to department logs.

"When we respond to calls for fireworks the officer investigates the complaint so that the public's peace is restored and that we do not have to return repeatedly," Norwood Police spokesman Kevin Grasso said in an email Thursday. "In a majority of these calls the person(s) responsible for setting off the fireworks do not stay in the area and would flee upon the officer's arrival."

Of the calls logged over the days surrounding the 4th of July holiday, police found firework remnants at two scenes but no activity when the officers arrived. In 11 of the calls investigated responding officers found nothing at all in the area.

"When an opportunity arises and the officer does locate the fireworks it is confiscated, returned to the evidence department and then destroyed by the State Fire Marshal's Office," Grasso said.

Massachusetts Fireworks Law states that it is illegal for private citizens to use, possess, or sell fireworks, or to purchase them legally elsewhere and then transport them into the state. The law prohibits any article designed to , including sparklers, party poppers, snappers, firecrackers, spinners and cherry bombs.

Possession or use of fireworks can carry a fine of up to $100. Confiscation of the fireworks by police is mandatory, and the materials are forfeited to the Commonwealth.