Police say a 25-year-old New Rochelle resident was arrested after an investigation into the online sale of illegal fireworks led to a controlled purchase valued at $500 or more.
A New Rochelle man is facing criminal charges after police said he sold illegal fireworks through an online platform, leading to his arrest as the Fourth of July holiday approaches.
The New Rochelle Police Department said the investigation concluded Thursday evening when officers arrested Jushwa Budhu, 25, of New Rochelle, following what authorities described as a transaction involving illegal fireworks with a value of $500 or more.
Investigation led to arrest
According to police, investigators developed leads identifying Budhu as a suspect involved in the illegal sale of fireworks operating out of New Rochelle.
“Through investigative leads, officers identified Jushwa Budhu, 25 years of age, as a suspect in the illegal sale of fireworks conducted through an online platform operating out of New Rochelle,” the department said in a news release.
Police said the investigation culminated in a transaction during which Budhu was taken into custody without incident. Officers recovered the fireworks involved in the sale, which authorities said had a value of $500 or more.
Court appearance scheduled
Budhu was charged with unlawfully selling fireworks with a value of $500 or more, a Class B misdemeanor under New York State Penal Law Section 270.00.
Police said he was booked and is scheduled to appear in New Rochelle Court on Tuesday, July 7.
The department is encouraging residents to report the illegal sale of fireworks or other suspicious activity by calling its non-emergency line at (914) 654-2300 or anonymously at (914) 632-COPS.
Key Points
- A 25-year-old New Rochelle man was arrested following an investigation into the alleged online sale of illegal fireworks.
- Police recovered fireworks valued at $500 or more during the investigation.
- The suspect is charged with unlawfully selling fireworks valued at $500 or more and is scheduled to appear in court on July 7.