By Sara Beth Williams–
Citrus Heights Police arrested 44-year-old Jason Hulsey Wednesday on felony charges of possession of fentanyl for the purpose of sale, officials say.
During a routine enforcement operation, detectives with the Citrus Heights Police Department (CHPD) IMPACT unit, in collaboration with Sacramento County Probation Officers, apprehended Hulsey after he was found to be in possession of fentanyl and over two dozen illegal fireworks, according to a social media update by police.
Hulsey had more than 32 grams of fentanyl, along with 25 illegal firework devices, in his possession and now faces felony charges for possession of fentanyl for the purpose of sales. Jail records show Hulsey remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court May 23.
According to the US Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl can be used to treat patients with chronic severe pain or severe pain following surgery under professional medical supervision. Fentanyl is a Schedule II controlled substance that is similar to morphine but about 100 times more potent. Two milligrams is considered a lethal dose, depending on body size and tolerance.
In addition to the drug charges, authorities said Hulsey could also face steep fines under the city of Citrus Heights’ recently updated fireworks ordinance. The ordinance imposes a fine of $1,000 per illegal firework device on a first offense, which could total $25,000 in penalties in Hulsey’s case. Repeat offenses come with even higher fines, and the ordinance allows for property owners and social hosts to be held liable if illegal fireworks are discharged on their premises.
“Illegal fireworks aren’t just dangerous—they’re expensive,” the police department said in its social media update.
Residents are encouraged to report illegal fireworks through the city’s SeeClickFix app or by visiting the Citrus Heights Police Department’s website.
