Douglas County Sheriff’s Office issues warnings for 4th of July

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Department has issued several warnings for residents partaking in Fourth of July festivities.

Sheriff Ron Pierini said the possession and discharge of fireworks in Douglas County is prohibited and could carry criminal penalties including fines up to $1,000 and/or jail time up to six months.

“Please, do not risk life or property by the personal use or display of fireworks,” the Sheriff’s Department said in a press release. “There are many community firework displays planned in our area in which you can take part, without risk of criminal or civil penalties.”

Legal action will also be taken for anyone who consumes alcoholic beverages on Nevada Beach for Independence Day. This ordinance came about as a way to combat drunkenness and violence associated with alcoholic consumption experienced on the beach in previous years.

There will be signs and law enforcement posted at the entrance to Nevada Beach. Any cooler, backpack, bag, purse or other container that could carry a vessel containing alcohol is subject to search or seizure anywhere inside Nevada Beach Park.

The U.S. Forest Service will also be enforcing the no alcohol policy in the Zephyr Cove Beach Resort and Campground on July 4, between the hours of 10 p.m. and midnight. There will be designated areas for the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages will be established and anyone found in possession outside of those areas will be subject to a fine not to exceed $5,000.

DCSO said law enforcement has adopted a zero tolerance enforcement approach for those individuals who choose to disrupt the festivities by drunkenness, quarreling, fighting or in the possession of fireworks. Heavy law enforcement presence will be monitoring celebrations in the Stateline Casino area, Nevada Beach, and Zephyr Cove Resort.

Offenses will be strictly enforced including discharge, possession, storage or sale of fireworks; disturbing the peace; provoking commission of breach of peace; and disorderly conduct.