Two Franklin Square men arrested for allegedly using illegal fireworks

A pair of Franklin Square residents were charged with several crimes for allegedly setting off illegal fireworks in the community on July 4. 

After 6 p.m., the Nassau County Police Department Arson Bomb Squad was made aware of Nicholas Moschonas, 33, of 3rd Street was seen setting off fireworks on the corner of 3rd Street and 2nd Avenue.

Expanding their investigation, it was learned that a 2019 Dodge RAM belonging to Peter Mari, 33, of Hancock Avenue, was discovered with numerous boxes of fireworks inside the vehicle.

Both men were arrested. Police seized 14 cases of fireworks.

Moschonas is charged with explosives – licenses and certificates, explosives - storage, unlawfully selling fireworks and reckless endangerment.

Mari is charged with explosives – licenses and certificates.

They were arraigned at First District Court in  Hempstead, on July 5.

For the safety and security of all residents and visitors, Nassau police officials said the department will continue its zero-tolerance approach regarding the possession and illegal use of fireworks. The use of explosives, including fireworks, is illegal and extremely dangerous, police added.