A look at the LA County Sheriff's Department crackdown on illegal fireworks ahead of July 4th

PARAMOUNT, Calif. (KABC) -- Ahead of the Fourth of July, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is cracking down on illegal fireworks, specifically focusing on those selling them.

In Paramount on Wednesday, ABC7 was there when deputies cited a woman, who they say is one of nearly 50 sellers they've cited, and confiscated large boxes of fireworks in the trunk of her car.

The woman told ABC7 she was just dropping the fireworks off.

"Honestly, they just sent me," she said.

So far, the Paramount sheriff's station has confiscated more than 3,300 pounds of fireworks. All of those who have been caught have been issued administrative citations and $5,000 fines.

"Unfortunately, we had an incident last year where someone lost a foot. And two weeks ago, someone lost a hand and not only that, a lot of homes have caught on fire as well," said Deputy Allan Mata.

The fireworks crackdown is part of the department's campaign to keep the community safe this Fourth of July.

Investigators say finding illegal fireworks for sale is easy to do, especially on social media. Deputies arrange pickups with alleged sellers and take the suspects, who they say are often armed, into custody.

"We've recovered firearms, Tasers, brass knuckles and bats. Why? Because people arm themselves knowing that they will sell and there's a potential danger between the buyer and the seller," said Sgt. Miguel Meza.

The colorful boxes of fireworks may look fun, but they are especially dangerous, authorities say. Some pack up to 400 times more flash power than legal consumer fireworks.

Deputies say the busts in Paramount are sending a clear message.

"It's making a statement that one, it's not going to be tolerated here. And two, we really care about safety - not only for us but also for the residents in the community," Deputy Mata added.