(KRON) — A man arrested for allegedly driving a stolen U-Haul filled with more than 100 pounds of illegal fireworks in San Francisco on June 26 was formally charged July 1.
San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said that the suspect, 38-year-old Joe Jenkins, was charged with one count of unlawful driving or taking of a vehicle, receiving stolen property, possession of more than 100 pounds of fireworks and possession of an explosive.
Joe Jenkins pleaded not guilty to all charges Tuesday. The case remains under investigation.
On July 2, more than 1,600 pounds of illegal fireworks and explosives were found inside another stolen U-Haul truck, according to the San Francisco Police Department.
The San Francisco Police Department announced in June that it is increasing staffing and resources ahead of the Fourth of July to seize illegal fireworks and to protect the public. Citizens are asked to watch the fireworks show at San Francisco’s waterfront instead of lighting off their own illegal fireworks.
“San Francisco’s public safety partners strongly urge San Franciscans to keep themselves and their neighborhoods safe this year,” San Francisco District Attorney’s Office said. “Report illegal fireworks only if you see the person lighting them, can describe them, and can give an exact location or address, by calling the SFPD non-emergency line at (415) 553-0123.”