May 19, 2007 / Brooklyn news / Police Blotter / Bay Ridge–Bensonhurst

Explosive bust for the 68

By Christie Rizk

The Brooklyn Paper

Bay Ridge cops went undercover last week to sting a would-be fireworks entrepreneur — nabbing a Queens woman for attempting to sell pyrotechnic goodies, which is illegal in New York State.

Here’s how it went down: Earlier this month, an officer from the 68th Precinct posted on Craig’s List for tips on where he could buy fireworks.

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On May 7, an Astoria resident wrote back, offering 20 high-power “Mortar Shell Bombs” and assorted “Roman Candles” for the low, low price of $125, cops said.

The undercover officer met the woman at the R-train station at 68th Street and made the exchange. Ten minutes later, his backup swooped down and arrested the unsuspecting saleswoman. Cops identified the seller as Christine Persad and charged her with “sale of fireworks,” a misdemeanor.

Persad could not be reached for comment. However, judging by current Craig’s List postings, her arrest may not be the last for “sale of fireworks” this year.

“Hey, I need some fireworks in two weeks,” said one poster (or, perhaps, another undercover cop). “[I] have [$]250 to spend. Email me with info.”

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