By Jim Emerson
LIVERMORE, CA — A man, being monitored online, was arrested in May for possession of a controlled
substance and illegal fireworks.
Juan Carlos Cruz Jr., 18, of Livermore, faces multiple charges.
Cruz was booked at Alameda County Santa Rita Jail, however, he is no longer in custody.
Social media platforms are monitored to detect criminal activities, particularly for illegal
fireworks prior to the Fourth of July.
The Alameda County Sheriff’s Office tasks the Eden Township Substation’s Crime Reduction Unit to monitor for signs of illegal fireworks activity.
Fireworks are banned in unincorporated areas of Alameda County.
With support from three investigative units, detectives from the sheriff’s office apprehended
Cruz on May 21.
The investigation was led by a property crimes unit, with support from crime
reduction and crime prevention units.
Detectives recovered 258 pounds of illegal fireworks from Cruz—found inside his car.
In addition, detectives seized a controlled substance that Cruz allegedly intended to sell. Drug
paraphernalia and ammunition were also recovered from him.
Multiple charges have been filed against Cruz. His charges include possession of a controlled
substance for sale, possession of a large quantity of contraband, and possession of
dangerous fireworks.
The sheriff’s office said in a prepared statement. “Use of illegal fireworks presents a
significant danger to public safety, posing serious risks of injury and fire.”
The quantity of fireworks seized from Cruz is reportedly enough to stage a small fireworks show, with more
than 500 mortars.
