Illegal fireworks users will probably escape prosecution

YOUNGSTOWN — Those inside the Phantom Fireworks showroom on Market Street legally purchase fireworks with colorful names — “Fear No Evil,” “Rain of Fire,” “Shagadelic Mojo,” “Battle of Yorktown Assortment” and “Molotov Cocktail.”

You’ll see these and other fireworks on display this weekend in your neighborhood, perhaps by you or someone down the street.

Though it’s illegal to ignite these and other consumer fireworks, unless you’re careless, reckless or just plain stupid, it’s highly unlikely you’ll be arrested.

State law also requires those who buy fireworks to sign document stating they’ll get the fireworks purchased in Ohio out of the state within 48 hours or face criminal charges.

But don’t get too worried about getting arrested if you violate the law.

“I don’t have the time or manpower to enforce a law that’s basically unenforceable,” said Boardman Police Chief Patrick J. Beraducci. “The signing of a document is impossible to enforce. Do I follow you for 49 hours to make sure you get it out of the state? We have burglaries and other crimes to handle. It’s not a good use of our time.”

Local police officials and state legislators say not only should the law requiring fireworks consumers to sign a document be changed, but so should the law making it illegal to use consumer fireworks in Ohio.

For the complete story, read Wednesday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com