Lemoore military veteran decries illegal fireworks set off in neighborhood

By 6:45 p.m. the scene had been secured. The officers were still on scene when three illegal fireworks were detonated just three houses down from where the officers were parked – and were in their vehicles. Not one went down to correct the situation. I know this because I was standing in my driveway trying to enjoy time with my kids "safe and sane" fireworks, which we purchased.

The officers left the scene they were originally dispatched to without any action taken towards the illegal fireworks. You see, I am a combat veteran with severe PTSD. I try my hardest not to interfere with people's celebrations, but when it interferes with my ability to enjoy a celebration with my family because these other people are violating the law, I take an issue with it.

When those "illegal fireworks" go off, it triggers a not-so-good reaction with me. Honestly, my first reaction is to take cover and return fire. However, I always take medication before going outside with my family to light our "safe and sane" fireworks.

But last night, July 4, 2019, there were more "illegal fireworks" than ever in my 13 years of living in my house. Even on medication, I could not remain outside. I was forced to leave my family’s celebration and go inside to take even more medications just to keep myself from possibly acting out, or as the doctors say: "having a flashback.”

 I called the Lemoore Police Department to report illegal fireworks being detonated within my neighborhood. I placed this call at 9:50 p.m. to the non-emergency line. I even gave the location where the illegal fireworks were being detonated, and nothing was done about it. Why have laws/ordinances that are not enforced? Turning a blind eye to a violation makes you just as guilty as the perpetrator of the violation.

I am not ranting. I am pointing out the hypocrisy of it all. I fought for this country and sacrificed my ability to fully function as a normal person. That was my choice, and I take full responsibility for my decisions. However, I hold everyone accountable for their actions and/or inactions as should all people. "Illegal fireworks" are a violation of the LAW and MUST be addressed by holding those people accountable.

I am glad those "violators" had a good time violating the rights of law-abiding citizens in the City of Lemoore.

Greg Jones

Greg Jones, a resident of Lemoore, served in 16 years in the United States Navy and remained here after leaving the service.