Illegal Fireworks Investigation Results in Citations and Seizure

On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit (OCU) detectives responded to a complaint regarding the illegal sale of fireworks in the parking lot of Crystal Palace, located at 3440 S. Third Street.
Upon arrival, detectives observed two individuals unloading a large quantity of fireworks from a U-Haul truck and displaying fireworks for sale with visible price tags. During the investigation, one individual admitted to purchasing the fireworks in Illinois and selling them at the location. Both individuals were detained while detectives completed their investigation. MPD TACT personnel responded to assist, and the fireworks were confiscated.
The Memphis Police Department reminds the public that the illegal sale of fireworks is prohibited and encourages residents to report suspected violations to help keep our community safe.
Robert Cobb, 23, was charged and issued a misdemeanor citation for:
Daniel Betts, 23, was charged and issued a misdemeanor citation for:

A poster-style graphic with a blue and gold color scheme showing the Memphis Police Department seal at the top next to the large word “ARRESTED.” On the left side, a Crime Stoppers badge graphic lists the number 901‑528‑CASH and the website crimestopmem.org, along with information about contacting Crime Stoppers anonymously and being eligible for a cash reward. In the center-left is a rectangular photo of a person with long, thick hair. On the right side, the text reads “Robert Cobb” and lists charges related to unlawful acts in the sale, handling, placement, storage, and display of fireworks. A poster-style graphic with a gold and blue color scheme. At the top is the Memphis Police Department seal next to a large blue banner displaying the word “ARRESTED” in bold white letters. On the left side, a blue shield-shaped Crime Stoppers graphic shows the phone number 901‑528‑CASH, the website crimestopmem.org, and information about contacting Crime Stoppers anonymously and qualifying for a cash reward. In the center is a rectangular photo of a person’s upper body. To the right of the photo, text reads “Daniel Betts” followed by “Unlawful Acts in the Sale and Handling of Fireworks.” Below that, additional text states: “Daniel Betts, 23, was charged with:” followed by two bullet points describing charges involving unlawful acts in the sale and handling of fireworks, and unlawful placement, storage, and display of fireworks under sunlight. The bottom-right corner includes a small Memphis Police Department seal.

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