ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — They’ll likely be mindful of any future fireworks ban.
Albuquerque authorities say, among the more than a dozen citations for illegal fireworks handed out July
4th, one was given to a group of Buddhist monks, KRQE-TV reports (http://goo.gl/ikB3oK).
Albuquerque Fire Department inspector Darrick Pino said the citation was written after authorities
stumbled upon an audience watching a fireworks show from the Hoi Phuoc Buddhist Temple.
The monks were setting off a treasure trove of illegal fireworks, including Roman candles and mortars,
Pino said.
Albuquerque was under fireworks restrictions due to high fire danger.
A woman with the temple told authorities the monks don’t watch TV, listen to the radio or read
newspapers. She said the monks didn’t know there was a fireworks ban.
“It’s still your responsibility to know the laws of the land,” Pino said.
The citations can carry a fine of up to $500 or 90 days in jail.