The Lawrence Police Departments takes “quality of life” complaints from residents seriously, and we work proactively to address these issues. Over the past several weeks, the Lawrence Police Department has experienced an increase in calls relating to the use of illegal fireworks throughout the City. This situation is not unique to the City of Lawrence, it is happening in cities and towns across the Commonwealth. The City of Boston alone has seen a 2300% increase in fireworks calls compared to this time last year. We want to make sure you are aware that through the month of June, our Officers arrested 4 individuals, summoned 5 individuals into court, and issued 10 citations for fireworks related offenses. Also, as a result of this increase in incidents, Chief Vasque has implemented additional patrols to work directly on the issue of fireworks complaints. These patrols will focus on the areas of the City where fireworks complaints have been made, and will address new complaints as they arise.

Due to the fact that the City is situated close to New Hampshire, it is believed that these fireworks are being purchased in New Hampshire and illegally transported across the Massachusetts border. As a result, the Department is working with the Massachusetts and the New Hampshire State Police. The Department cannot do this alone. Residents are urged to discuss the inherent dangers of fireworks with their teenage children, and the adverse effects in has on our neighborhoods. We want to remind everyone that this is a serious issue. In addition to being a serious fire hazard, the noise from fireworks has a very real, negative impact on our City. People are frightened and losing sleep. Children, babies, and the elderly are being woken up. Pets are terrified. Worst of all, our veterans and others with PTSD are experiencing real harm.

Individuals caught possessing and/or shooting off fireworks are subject to fines and arrest. While is it difficult to pinpoint the exact location of where fireworks are set off, in addition to calling 978-794-5900 residents are urged to email disorder@lawpd.com with as much detailed information as possible.

In addition to leaving information regarding fireworks at disorder@lawpd.com, please feel free to relay information regarding any other quality of life issues you would like addressed through that email address. As always, for emergency situations, please call 911.

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