Full Notification

Date of Release: Wednesday, July 3, 2025

Throughout June and into the first week of July, the West Covina Police Department (WCPD) conducted multiple illegal fireworks enforcement operations to ensure community safety ahead of the Independence Day holiday.

There were a total of four operations. Detectives and patrol officers from WCPD, in collaboration with an arson investigator from the West Covina Fire Department (WCFD), launched this investigation into the possession and distribution of a large quantity of illegal fireworks. Three of the investigations led to the seizure of approximately 1300 pounds of illegal fireworks and an unregistered firearm.

The fourth investigation led investigators to a residence in the 1300 block of Sherway Avenue in West Covina. A search warrant was obtained and executed at the location, where investigators discovered approximately 8,000 pounds of illegal mortar-style fireworks—a highly dangerous and volatile cache.

Timothy Tillman, a 43-year-old resident of Fullerton, CA, was arrested at the scene. He was booked into the West Covina Jail on felony charges related to the possession and intent to distribute illegal fireworks.

The West Covina Police Department and WCFD remind the public that all fireworks are illegal in the City of West Covina, and their use poses a serious risk to community safety. These efforts are part of a citywide initiative to prevent injuries, fires, and property damage during the holiday season.

Residents are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and report any illegal fireworks activity. There will be enforcement teams to include the West Covina Police Department's drone operators patrolling the city on the Fourth of July to strictly enforcement any illegal fireworks throughout the city.

For more information or to report illegal fireworks, please contact the West Covina Police Department non-emergency line at (626) 939-8500.
 
Released by Lieutenant Tim Rodgers
Public Information Officer
Phone: (626) 939-8500
[email protected]