2 arrested for illegal sale of fireworks

Two men were arrested today in connection with selling illegal fireworks in Bonita Springs.

A Lee County sheriff’s deputy conducted an open-view inspection at about 9:45 a.m. of the fireworks offered for sale at Uncle Al's Fireworks on Bonita Beach Road. The deputy was checking to see that the business had the correct permits.

When asked for his permits, employee Michael Hallas, 1203 SW 48th Terrace, No. 103, Cape Coral, could only produce an occupational license. Most of the fireworks in the tent were illegal, authorities said.

The deputy also smelled burnt marijuana in the tent, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Hallas called his employer, Alfred Mueller, 7200 Green Acre Lane, Fort Myers, who said he was en route to the scene. While waiting, the deputy discovered that Hallas was in possession of marijuana.

Mueller also couldn’t provide the correct paperwork. A Bonita Spring code enforcement inspector said the tent was only allowed to sell sparklers. The permit was revoked.

Officials removed the fireworks for storage at an undisclosed location.

Mueller was arrested in connection with a fireworks selling violation and not having an occupational license. Hallas was arrested in connection with possession of marijuana of not more than 20 grams, possessing narcotics equipment and a fireworks selling violation.