Fireworks and Criminal Charges
Fireworks can be an enjoyable form of entertainment if they are used in a controlled setting. Many people are able to watch fireworks displays provided by professionals at theme parks, sporting events, and events that mark the celebration of holidays. Although fireworks are often available for personal use, serious problems can arise if they are used improperly or recklessly.
If a person uses fireworks in a malicious or dangerous manner, he or she may face criminal charges for his or her actions. If the fireworks are used in a manner not intended by the manufacturer or are not used in a safe and controlled setting, the individual responsible may be charged with a crime, ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony charges. The type of crime and the level of punishment is often directly tied to the person’s intentions and the seriousness of the act.
Criminal cases involving fireworks have included:
- Charges against individuals who lit fireworks in public spaces and endangered the public
- Use of fireworks for pranks in schools or public buildings
- Use of fireworks as weapons
- Failure to monitor fireworks use of minors
- Arson charges against persons who recklessly used fireworks near flammable items
- Charges against persons who injured or killed others when playing with fireworks
In some cases, the reckless use of fireworks have caused serious injury and even death. Criminal charges have been filed against people who have engaged in “bottle rocket fights” or have used “cherry-bombs” in public places as pranks. Others have been charged with arson if the fireworks they used caused severe damage to property. There have also been cases of individuals using fireworks for pranks that have gone terribly wrong. In any event, dangerous behavior (both negligent and intentional) may warrant criminal charges against the individual responsible.
If you have been wrongly accused of a crime involving fireworks, you have the right to defend yourself in a court of law. There may have been other factors that contributed to the accident and you may be able to prove that your actions were not negligent. If you would like to know more about criminal charges regarding fireworks and criminal defense, contact the Milwaukee criminal defense attorneys of Kohler & Hart, LLP at 414-271-9595 to discuss your defense.
Joseph Devine
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