Israel Mireles Arrested in Mexico
Israel Mireles Arrested in Mexico Save Email Print
Man suspected in Emily Sander's death behind bars
Posted: 11:12 AM Dec 19, 2007
 Last Updated: 10:17 AM Dec 20, 2007
 Reporter: KAKE News
Email Address: news@kake.com
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KAKE News has learned the man wanted for killing an El Dorado teenager is in custody. Israel Mireles, 24, is behind bars on homicide charges, suspected in the death of 18-year-old Emily Sander.

Mireles was arrested by Mexican Authorities working with U.S. Marshals in Melchor-Muzquiz, Mexico Wednesday morning. Melchor-Muzquiz is just southwest of Del Rio, Texas. Mireles was staying at the home of a family member in Mexico.

U.S. authorities are working with Mexican authorities to extradite Mireles to Kansas. Mireles faces a charge of capital murder in Butler County - the first charge filed since the death penalty was reinstated. But due to his capture in Mexico, Kansas authorities will not seek the death penalty, in order to assure his extradition. He will be detained under Mexican law for 60 days until Kansas can extradite him. Mexico usually doesn't allow the extradition of one of its citizens if that person would face the death penalty.

Authorities say Mireles raped and sodomized Emily Sander before he killed her. She disappeared the day after Thanksgiving - last seen leaving an El Dorado bar with Mireles. Her body was found east of El Dorado days later.

If convicted of capital murder, Mireles will be sentenced to life without parole.

Mireles was believed to be traveling with his pregnant, teenage girlfriend, Victoria Martens. Authorities say she is in Mexico and not in custody. She was not at the same home as Mireles at the time of his arrest. Family members have spoken to her. She is not charged in the case.

Butler County authorities indicate they have no legal recourse to force her return to Kansas.
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Posted by: Mireles Fam. Location: Texas on Jan 19, 2009 at 11:50 AM
I don't know Israel much, even though we are related, now it's not about being "mexican" or not, it's about a crime!!!! Israel didn't only cause pain to Emilys family, but he caused pain to his parents, and sister too. It's hard for me to even understand that I have a murderer in my family, that's just not "right". I been questionin my self as to why did he do it. One of my childhood friends was his first wife, and I imagine if this would have happened to her...... Please don't be racist because not all of us are criminals, not only "mexicans commit crimes!!!!!! have that in mind!!!!!!
Posted by: Mike Location: Ohio on Jul 14, 2008 at 01:21 PM
Victoria is an accomplice to murder no matter if she is ever convicted or not. She deserves just as much punishment as Israel Mireles. I should also note that lets not revert to blaming all Mexicans for this crime. Most immigrants and thats what we all are, unless your native American, are hard working and honest people. If I were in Mexico trying to feed my family and avoid the drug cartels the United States is exactly where I would flee too. Do we need better control of our borders? Of course we do! It should never be as easy as it is to get into a country. But lets blame the killer! Israel Mireles and Victoria! These people don't represent the decent hard working Mexican immigrants we have in our country. Good Day!
Posted by: r.w Location: eldorado kansas on Mar 24, 2008 at 10:25 PM
we are all very upset with this whole moralse thing and no matter what anyone or any judge does to him it will never bring our girl em back;;but my way is he will answer dearly for what hes done;;i wish every day this was a bad dream,but its reality your gone but you are safe in the arms of our heavenly father where no one can harm you again;;i miss you EMILY..and to the family of emily my thoughts and prayers are with you daily
Posted by: Jonathan Location: Salmon, Idaho on Jan 14, 2008 at 08:27 AM
It's good to see the justice system working effectively to bring these types of "suspects" to trial. Mr. Morales could not have been ignorant of the attention placed on his person and chose to flee this country hiding in Mexico. It casts doubt on presumed innocent and will bear heavily on him at trial. I doubt this will ease the pain of Emily's family much. But maybe a little is better than nothing.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 27, 2007 at 10:23 PM
Em i miss you so much. It seems like the days go by but it doesn't get any easier. I find myself contantly stopping by the cemetary to bring you flowers, walking into your apartment and looking into your empty room hoping its a dream, and everytime i slide up my phone i see the picture of me and you. It never seems to leave my mind how someone so disgusting as him could do something so horrible to such a sweet innocent soul. I love you Em. I will see you again someday but until then i know you will be a guardian angel and guide your friends and family. Happy Holidays :)
Posted by: AC Location: ElDorado on Dec 25, 2007 at 01:19 AM
Merry Christmas Em. Love you lots, MISS YOU BUNCHES! They got him. I promised you they would, justice will be served one way or another,If he dies or lives you will be remember and GOD has you safe in his arms now.And as far as The MEXICAN/AMERICAN's you don't cross boarders, cross the boarder and speak ENGLISH and don't cross back. Merry Christmas to the Mirales family. Victoria just come home!! We cannot get back what was taken away,but knowing EM she would not want Victoria with a guy like this or have her hanging out in Mexico without her REAL FAMILY.We miss you M&M.It's been a month and it still seems like a bad dream.Always in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: Lynn Location: Kansas on Dec 22, 2007 at 08:52 AM
To "Best Friend": here you are on here claiming you know so much about your "friend" Victoria....if Victoria knows the truth now about what Israel did to Emily (now that he has been arrested, since according to you, he was lying to her the whole time up to the arrest) why is she refusing to come home and why is her mother having to plead to the public and on the news for her to come home? You'd think she'd be on the first plane back to safety! But apparently that is not what she wants. You are an ignorant brat, just like Victoria is. I really wish you'd shut up, because it is obvious you don't know your "friend" as well as you claim, and obviously Victoria is choosing to stand by her rapist, murderer boyfriend instead of coming back to the security and safety of family and friends. Must feel good to know that she'd rather stay in Mexico with complete strangers than to come home and hang out with you!
Posted by: her best friend Location: Kansas on Dec 22, 2007 at 12:51 AM
my comments seem to stand...because, yes, like you said, according to the news stories he is a Mexican citizen, as well as an American citizen. And technically Mexican is a race, as well as African, African American, and Americans, and lets not forget the Chinese and the Israelis and what not..I am young, but I am not stupid, the comment was not only thrown to you, it was thrown towards all the racist comments I've seen on this page...
Posted by: Noah Aztlan Location: Winfield on Dec 21, 2007 at 04:20 PM
@her best friend According to the news story Israel is a "Mexican" citizen. He will only face extradition if the death penalty is thrown to the curb. Now, since you proudly state "mexican" is what you are, its quite obvious where your loyalty lies, and its the not the United States of America. note:(before eager hands throw out the "race card") Mexico is a nation not a race. As for the half brain comment, thats just rude. perhaps you should read "IQ and the wealth of Nations" by Dr. Richard Lynn and you may just find some illumination.
Posted by: her best friend Location: Kansas on Dec 21, 2007 at 11:21 AM
and...Noah...he wasn't "illegal" if you've actually paid attention what so ever or have half a brain to pay attention...he was a citizen of the United States. and if you mean illegal as in Mexican...I take offense to that, cuz I myself am also Mexican..
Posted by: her best friend Location: kansas on Dec 21, 2007 at 10:50 AM
again...let me say, she's not going to be in any legal trouble, she was at her family's for the holidays...she had no idea about Emily, she does now...but she didn't the whole time she was there, the reason she went with him to Mexico is becuz he lied to her, kind of, told her his grandmother had cancer...so she went with the man she loves, or loved...love sees no age...the law does, but seriously...what do they know...she was wrong, ppl can be wrong sometimes..Scott, I'm sure ur wrong alot...at least u are now. The only trouble she's going to be in ...to tell u the truth, is not telling me she was leaving in the first place...the authorities don't care, her family doesn't care, they just want her back.
Posted by: Noah Aztlan Location: Winfield on Dec 20, 2007 at 05:33 PM
Yet another AMERICAN murdered by an illegal. Our genocide continues unabated. Read the news from around the country people, its happening everywhere.
Posted by: scott Location: dc on Dec 20, 2007 at 03:26 PM
to her best friend, yeah you feel sorry for her but you have got to relize that she not coming back cause she knows she going to be in trouble. she needs to be. and yeah i'm sure mexico is a great place to raise a baby, get real, if she cared she would come back and deal with whaty has happen and let someone take of that baby that don't hang with killers
Posted by: Macdad Location: newton on Dec 20, 2007 at 12:23 PM
"god is good, he will judge him" Ha Ha. Give me a break. Where was god when this went down in the hotel room that night fool, on a smoke break? I want justice NOW not in some fantasy world. Shoot the guy in the no man lands of Texas and leave him there.
Posted by: James Location: w on Dec 20, 2007 at 10:41 AM
Kill someone ;run back to mexico and then you are immune from the death penalty; what a double standard ; send them back and build the fence
Posted by: Annonymous Location: El Dorado on Dec 20, 2007 at 09:35 AM
I think he should share a cell with one of the Carr Brothers
Posted by: her best friend Location: Kansas on Dec 20, 2007 at 09:25 AM
Don't even start with that **** about Victoria...they caught that ****, the case is over, but not quite..I haven't talked to her yet but I'm sure she has her reasons...if he threatened her she wouldn't have tried to run...especially in Mexico...if she even knew about Emily...he was keeping her away from everything that could have told her anything about the homicide. and seriously, if a man threatened you..you were 8 months pregnant, and he had a criminal record...would you run from him?! idk about you idiots...but I wouldn't have...just wait it out...that's the smartest thing she could've done.
Posted by: me on Dec 20, 2007 at 08:56 AM
to kenny, that 16yr old had to of knowen about it at least 3 days into this or deal, she could of ran or called for help. she is dumb and deserves to be in mexico,
Posted by: annonymous Location: eldorado ks on Dec 20, 2007 at 08:32 AM
My frustration is how the law works. I have a hard time knowing that i have to go to work every day and pay my taxes to pay for this sick SOB to live. I think he needs to be tortured and killed the same way he decided to do to Emily. Maybe then he will recieve what he gets. Mexico seems as though he doesnt need to die....maybe if it was one of thier daughters or sisters they would feel differently. It's crap!! He will be lucky if he even makes it to prison if you ask me. As far as his girlfriend. Theres no way she didnt know about it. I think they need to look further into that situation and get the truth. I am glad though that she is ok. To Emily's family I'm sorry for your loss but justice will be served. By the way where are her parents?
Posted by: rmb Location: kansas on Dec 20, 2007 at 08:19 AM
I hope this ANIMAL spends his life rotting away for Emilys death. I have a Son there in El Dorado in prison, who got 30 freaking years on a drug charge...and he tells me he see's many many killers come in and recieve 12-15 yrs for KILLING a human being! Wheres the justice there ? My Son has been in prison almost 6 yrs now and hasnt gotten in trouble once he earned his respect BUT this guy *MIRELES* will not have that respect in there, he will meet a Bubba who will be waiting on him ! Well atleast he is caught!Merry Christmas !
Posted by: Annonymous Location: El Dorado on Dec 20, 2007 at 06:38 AM
Justice does prevail in the end! The El Dorado Police, Sheriff's department and the U.S. Marshall's have done a great job in getting this guy captured and behind bars! Also thank you to Kake reports and editors as to how you're covering this story unlike say Fox News. Greatly appreciated by all!
Posted by: Joe Location: El Dorado on Dec 20, 2007 at 05:59 AM
nunya: "If anybody out there has any guts he'll never make it to trial" Amen to that! If the US Gov't can't impose the death penalty, I'm sure there are plenty of hunters with scoped weaponry in Butler County that would love to pick up the slack. Israel is slimey mexican trash and he's going DOWN!!!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 20, 2007 at 02:01 AM
Another reason we need a fence. They come and break the law and run back over.
Posted by: someone Location: texas on Dec 19, 2007 at 10:33 PM
i dont think he needs the death penalty.i think he needs to be tortured in prison for the rest of his life.emily can have justice now.and they need to look more into his 16yr old girlfriend.because she didnt try to call 911 or tell anyone or run.so thats suspicious.but my prayers and respects go to emilys family..and i will always miss emily and remember the times we had in tx..RIP EMILY
Posted by: Kenny Location: Goddard on Dec 19, 2007 at 08:51 PM
Thank God this guy was caught. To the poster that said that his preg. Girlfreind should be charged to... maybe she should be but she is only 16 and naive. No telling what he has told her, she might not of even knew about the murder. As far as the Family of Emly Sanders, I am really relived that this guy was caught. I was afraid since he made it to Mexico that he would never be caught. Thank God he was. He needs to be punished for this crime.
Posted by: MS.BERNAL Location: Wichita on Dec 19, 2007 at 08:44 PM
To Anonymous, (Um about the girlfriend not bein charged)Like that guy was really gana tell her yeah i left a bar with Emily..and um i did so and so to her at the motel..Yeah right I bet she knew NOTHING. Like she was really going to WANT to still even b with him! Ok, she wasnt even at the same house he was at the time of the arrest, she probably had found out then,... then left him. i hope the Best Wishes to Emily's Family
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Maize Ks on Dec 19, 2007 at 05:10 PM
I'm so glad he has finally been caught. He desreves to be punished and not jail time eighter. If you know what i mean.
Posted by: nunya on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:54 PM
If anybody out there has any guts he'll never make it to trial
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:41 PM
i think she is guilty for not reaching the police especially if they were not at the same address so he couldnt have been holding her against her will
Posted by: Jim Location: Wichita on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:28 PM
Thank you KAKE for a decent headline to this. Caller her anything but a child that has made some child like mistakes is wrong. I say we make an example of him.
Posted by: Darla Location: South Dakota on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:26 PM
For the family I am glad this POS was found. I know it will not change what happened and I know how little consolation it will be to have all of this behind you someday. But it will help close another chapter. My prayers continue to be with the family of Emily. Of course, I think some good hard time for Mireles might be just the ticket. Look at all the trash that couldn't handle prison life and took their own. My favorite thought is Mireles being someone's "girlfriend" as he liked to rape maybe he will like to be raped too. Gotta love Prison life and the taste of sweet revenge!
Posted by: Aussie Rebel Location: Australia on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:24 PM
That is great news that they finally caught this guy, It's a pity he won't get the death penalty though :( I just hope he ends up sharing a prison cell with bubba, RIP Emily
Posted by: Mouth Location: Eldorado on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:21 PM
To anonymous, You really need to get your facts straight. The 16yr old was picked up after dumping Emilys body.Lets remember she is only 16.We all feared for the girl and the baby.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wichita on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:10 PM
Welcome to the United States of Mexico. One day I have a feeling that the reconquista will be in full effect, and we will be speaking Spanish. Way to go American government
Posted by: El Dorado Location: El Dorado on Dec 19, 2007 at 04:08 PM
Why should our Tax payers money be spent on inmates that are going to die behind bars? Then they end up letting other people off for crimes they have committed because not enough rooms in prison. I bet if it were your Daughter you would feel differently about what sentence this guy deserves. I know the law, but if he were found in TX he very well could have gotten the Death Penalty. Yes there will be justice, El Dorado did damn good police work for a small town, if your offended maybe your on the wrong side of the law. He will meet his maker just not soon enough. For those of us who put our lives on the line to protect people it is a great insult to hear a comment that the system protects the guilty. The system is what worked together to bring this man to justice. Excuse me for saying but some people would like to believe in the jobs that they do everyday, to protect and serve their community.
Posted by: John Location: Wichita on Dec 19, 2007 at 03:58 PM
One more reason why we should have a fence and stricter laws. I am tired of these people (legal or not)continuing to kill our innocent people. If we weren't allowing our country to grant citizenship to every single person or letting them cross our borders illegally, ummmm, I think crime might go down! His family, which I am sure they knew where he was should also be sent back to MExico for not cooperating with the law!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 03:55 PM
ok is the girlfriend going to get charged i know she knew about it
Posted by: Sonnie Location: Oceanside, CA on Dec 19, 2007 at 03:51 PM
When are we going to get rid of these illegals?
Posted by: Pam Location: Wichita on Dec 19, 2007 at 03:46 PM
Are you kidding me??? No death penalty? There should be no negotiation on that-regardless what Mexico thinks. He committed the crime here and killed an American citizen. Well, I guess justice will have to find it's way to him in jail. I hope they put him in with the worst of the worst and that he gets what is coming to him. Eye for and eye......
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 03:43 PM
They need to charge the 16 year old girl also. she knew he killed a girl she probley helped dump the body. she is as guilty as him. did she ever call 911 or tell a employee of a gas station or somewhere else they stopped at. She never tried to run. She is Just a guilty
Posted by: Anonymous Location: el dorado on Dec 19, 2007 at 02:49 PM
2 words...good luck lets face is there is no justice in the system it's just us in the system, and the system protects the guilty more then they do the innocent. He should spend the rest of his life behind bars, but the sad truth is that he probably won't. Which is **** he should have to pay everyday for the life he took from emily.
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 02:25 PM
God is good. This man's judgement will not be on earth facing man, but rather in his after life facing his maker.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: tex on Dec 19, 2007 at 02:19 PM
doesnt matter what they do to him, i just hope justice is served. you cant bring back what he took away
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 01:58 PM
finally
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 01:39 PM
An early Christmas gift to the Sander family
Posted by: El Dorado gal Location: El Dorado on Dec 19, 2007 at 12:51 PM
2 words Death Penalty!
Posted by: James Location: w on Dec 19, 2007 at 12:34 PM
Bet they don't charge him with the death penalty because mexico won't extradite him if they want to do so.
Posted by: Citizen for Justice Location: Wichita on Dec 19, 2007 at 12:14 PM
Well we can only hope that the 16 yr old is safe and hasnt also been harmed. Mexico does allow extridition ONLY if a Death Penality is not in the mix. http://www.escapingjustice.com/extrafpo.htm Somehow Justice should be served quickly and silently.
Posted by: BRANDON Location: eldorado ks on Dec 19, 2007 at 12:13 PM
HAHA! they caught him and its about time. have fun rotting behind bars!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Dec 19, 2007 at 12:08 PM
Thank goodness this guy has finally been caught, i hope that the little girl that was with him is okay. It is a very sad situation for Emily's family and i am so sorry for their loss. Thanks not only should go to the US marshalls but also to the Mexican authorities who helped in capturing this foul excuse for a man. God Bless the families of everyone affected by this horrible thing.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: El Dorado ks on Dec 19, 2007 at 11:51 AM
Thank God.......... you can rest n peace now emily...........
Posted by: Anonymous Location: somewhere on Dec 19, 2007 at 11:38 AM
ha ha ha you thought you got away didnt you ? well you didnt
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    Fire Department: Fireworks Are Illegal In Most Of Sedgwick County
    • Posted By: Pres: People should not be complaining for an enforcement to the ban just because fireworks are 'annoying'. Old people driving annoy me, but I'm not out calling for a ban on them. As long as they don't infringe on my safety, they have a right too! Same should be said with my fireworks. If I am not causing any direct harm to you or your property, quit complaining! Also, when did this become an 'Anti-fireman' thread? May they be blessed for all they do. But at the same time, they know what they are up against everytime they go out. Fireworks or no fireworks. I know I couldn't do their job. Just be safe and smart!
    • Posted By: : Park city looked like the first Iraq war last night!!! It was spectacular,the whole sky was lit up waaayyyy into the night in ALL neighborhoods...like it is EVERY year and did not have ONE incident of a feild or house fire! Sorry you people in Wichita did not get to enjoy! If you're good...we might let you come and see us shoot them next year...but thats only if you're good..kiddys.
    • Posted By: Stacy: These guidelines are good. However, I'm new to Wichita and I have to say I'm shocked at how many people shoot off fireworks in the city proper and in parking lots of businesses andapartment buildings (like the one I live in). If it's illegal to do this, why on earth is it so commonplace? I was in the military for a few years, about 3 of which were spent in a lot of different areas of the continental U.S., not to mention the nearly 18 years I grew up in mosly Montana. I never before have seen an entire city with so many amateur fireworks displays inside of city limits. Law enforcement, why aren't you enforcing anything?
    • Posted By: Anonymous: I agree with Frankie although the sedgwick county fire department says they only enforce the law, they pushed for the fireworks ban. I believe the original was in 1978. I know it was after bottle rockets were made illegal in Kansas. I wish government would quit trying to protect us from ourselves, we need protection from them. I'm sure our tax dollars paid for the signs, putting them up, and then for taking them down stuck all over! KAKE needs to go through it's archives and find the original ban the sedgwick county commissioners signed and also read the constitution it says that we have the right to celebrate our independance with fireworks. For those complaining about fires in rural areas I've lived out in rural sedgwick for over 50 years and the instance of a house or wheatfield fire being caused by fireworks is pretty uncommon. It's a sparsely populated area unlike city living and fireworks tend to go up not shoot out for miles. Farmers intentionally light the stubble after harvest!
    • Posted By: Firefighter: Fireworks were banned in Sedgwick County in 1978. Why? There weren't enough firefighters and equipment to go around. Calls were waiting for a response. Firefighters came to work at 7:00 and didn't see their station until the following morning. There were was much damage to fire equipment. The County department had a tank truck roll. This type of response had been occuring for several years. This doesn't even speak to the damage to stuctures, possesions and the persons that where injured. The departments and civic leaders said enough,and fireworks were banned. Some of you say we are unamerican. Far from the truth. You have asked us to watch after you and assist in the time of need. Sometimes that means prevetion instead of action. I love fireworks as much as the next person. Fireworks have slowly made it back into many communities. If everyone can prove they have self control and caution when using fireworks then, they may come back everywhere. Stay safe this 4th.
    • Posted By: Anonymous: I guess I'm one of the hundreds of others that did not realize ALL FIREWORKS WERE ILLEGAL! (At least For those of us living outside a city limits in sedgwick county). I knew that while some cities Belle Plaine, Clearwater, Haysville, etc.. chose to allow BIG STUFF (the aerials) Wichita did not. The 78' fireworks ban was for the BIG STUFF!! The unincorporated areas had to follow sedgwick county's allowable fireworks same as the city of wichita chose to do. What year did they sneak in NO FIREWORKS AT ALL OF ANY TYPE for unincorporated sedgwick county?? It wasn't in the original ban. Living outside the city limits of any town, even when ALL FIREWORKS were allowed there were no fireworks stands out here, and the news was saying buy where you live, I called the no fire number for the sedgwick county fire department and asked where we should buy fire works that would be legal and I was told in wichita city limits. This is unconstitutional, prejudiced and segregates rural sedgwick county!!!!
    • Posted By: George Washington: This is all silly. I am going outside to set off Fireworks.
    • Posted By: Susan: Ok, I will expect everyone who is upset to show up at the next Sedgwick County council meeting. If you don't even at least call your councilman, than you should not complain.
    • Posted By: Shaun: I think that people in the county needs to remember that this day is to celebrate or freedom as a country!!! China gave us fireworks to help US and a COUNRTY celebrate. To me this is UNAMERICAN!!! Yes, i agree that the big ones that can set major fires sould probly not be shot in rural areas. And all though this law don't affect me personally, it still does as I am a soldier and an American. I am proud of my country. Even if I could only shoot off fountains or what ever I still think that is better than nothing. As long as the person shooting them off is doing it on a concrete surface I don't see why they can't have small fireworks!!!!!
    • Posted By: donald otnes: My daughter called me at 10:15 pm on July 2, 2009. She had people setting off fireworks in her housing district. The kids were firing off the ones that sound like a bomb going off. Are people that stupid to let kids have fireworks that could blow up and take a hand off or even there face.
    • Posted By: miss america: My family is apparently among the wild, irresponsible rednecks in unincorporated Sedgwick county that have shot off fireworks every year on the 4th since I was a baby. It's true there is a need to protect farmers' wheatfields, so I can understand why the county might ban the big fireworks that fly up in the air, and bottle rockets, etc. But, why shouldn't we be able to at least set off the smaller fireworks, such as fountains, that are less dangerous? Why are our families denied the privilege of celebrating the 4th in a safe, fun way just because we live in the unincorporated areas? This fireworks ban on the 4th needs to be loosened up. It's really not fair.
    • Posted By: a: Think about this people! Fireworks are loud and anoying! I am so sick of people setting them off late at night while we are trying to sleep! My baby is being kept up by fireworks because people set them off at two in the morning!Please just think about where you are setting them off like close to houses and apartment buildings. Those are not good places to be doing them!
    • Posted By: Firefighters daughter: For those who think that firefighters just "sit around" you obviously have no idea what these people do. Just looking at the 4th, I can recall as a child how we all wondered if my dad would get to finish his hamburger before being called out to yet another of the many fires he went on that day . The work they do isn't restricted to a summer holiday. Think about the gear they wear...heavy coats, boots, air tanks, even on 100 degree days. Take a walk in their boots and face the fires, car accidents, tornado/storms, floods, and other emergencies they must face with courage, calm, and strength in order to save lives and property. As for "washing the truck" and other maintenance that must be done, do you want a rusted out, broken hosed truck showing up at your house because they DIDN't do those things? I hope they do get a chance to relax, eat, sleep, etc. between the emergencies they must face. I want a well rested and ready fire fighter showing up at my house should I ever need one
    • Posted By: rebecca: hey does anyone know if the little boy that went into QT has been found? I know this isn't the topic but I just wanted to know.
    • Posted By: : h: I believe that fireworks like Black Cats can be used in Derby as well as Wichita (it's been a long time since I've done any here so I wouldn't definitely know). But they might be setting off something bigger like an M50. The main problems they've had is with the ones that burst into showers of colored balls and sparks like we see in the big displays, roman candles, M80s and the ones that spray out sparks. The Eagle Beacon, last year, said that a good rule of thumb is if they shoot out sparks more than about 6 feet from the device then they are probably illegal.
    • Posted By: h: well they are sure shooting them in derby and we're in sedgwick county either they are not banned or the police in derby are not doing anything about the ones that are shooting off fireworks already. Frankly I'm sick of it, the neighborhood kids are shooting them off close to my property and my dogs are having fits, a call to the local police dpt says nothing they can do....so if they are banned in sedgwick county then they should be banned in derby and the derby police dpt needs to start enforcing the ban, if they aren't banned in derby then they need to be, there are other ways of having a good time on the 4th of July without having to endanger your yard, my yard, your life!!!!
    • Posted By: : If everyone was a responible person that means for their self and for the one's that have children, then we wouldn't have had these laws made.The population is so high now that the fire departments are on overload because of the people that will not take responsiblity for their actions.And as far as the fire department setting around!!! Let your house be on fire and then have to wait because these people are not at their work area's because you think they are setting around.I would hate for them to be kept busy 24/7. What would happen to our town without them if that were the case.Already the street that I live on is littered with trash from fire works because people are not responsibly.(not all)
    • Posted By: D: I completely agree with Anonymous at 9:26. Linda, unless you've been living under a rock, it's been well known for years that fireworks are illegal in the city limits. They make the same announcements every year. They don't sell the "big" illegal fireworks in the city but everyone still goes out of city limits to buy them and then come back home and shoot them off out in the neighborhood streets. I've seen fireworks in my neighborhood that would rival the ones at riverfest and Lawrence Dumont stadium and they aren't legal in the city.
    • Posted By: : Cliff: That's true but when they are burned off purposely there are fire control measures in place. When someone sets a fire with fireworks they tend to run away and then it gets out of control. Like I said, I've missed work because of people who do this. The reason why they made them illegal in Sedgwick County to begin with is because most people here are not responsible enough to use them safely. And Linda: They've been telling people every year that they are illegal. Most people just don't pay attention. And they only selll fireworks in Wichita that you can set off in Wichita. That's why they've always said "Shoot them where you buy them".
    • Posted By: Rod: I'm with 'Anonymous on Jul 1, 2009 at 08:08 AM'... Helps us Obama! We need you to protect us from ourselves! ALL PRAISE OBAMA!!!
    • Posted By: Linda: Ok, for one I think if they were illegal, than why didn't we know about it along time ago. I bet that the majority of the people that lives in Wichita didn't know this, and I think it is not right to start enforcing it NOW, I mean come on the main reason why people shoot of fireworks is for the kids entertainment, Also if its going to be illegal than why on earth should selling fireworks at the stands not be? People see the signs that fireworks are illegal, but when they are driving around wichita and see firework stands it just tempts them that much more. So I think its not right.
    • Posted By: cliff: anonomous at 8;08, fireworks are a tradition on the fourth of july. and the "tinderbox "harvesed wheat fields are usually burnt off this time of year anyway even without fireworks.
    • Posted By: : Bottle Rocket Roger: What makes you think being American means you should have the right to set off explosives? For the idiots who think they need to have fireworks: how many of you have to call into work and tell your boss you can't come in because some moron set fire to your house or yard? What about when they go outside the city & set them off in newly harvested wheat fields that are nothing more than tinderboxes at this time of year? Every year for the past six years I've lost pay because idiots cannot control themselves or the fires they set.
    • Posted By: don: its really sad,,,,we are not hardly even "independent" anymore,,,the government has "used" up all are rights,,,,,like the ol' saying goes though "just be glad your not getting ALL the government you pay for",,,,,period, end of sentence !!!!
    • Posted By: : Anonymous who is coming down on firefighters and their "lazy days of washing the trucks and sleeping and cooking meals" has no clue what firefighters do and how many calls many of the stations get,though many are medical. Firefighters are not exactly unpatriotic joy-squelchers, but they are supposed to educate the general public about fire safety. If you even understood all the job entailed you wouldn't talk like that.
    • Posted By: Bottle Rocket Roger: When I lived in a town just north of wichita,we were able to shoot fireworks ALL day long for a week..Park City allows fireworks ALL day long for week,NO problems in either town! We celebrate the 4th like americans in these towns! The people that made fireworks illegal in Wichita and hate the fireworks are ALL UNAMERICAN! Go hide in you're basements and shake like a coward..the M80's are coming!
    • Posted By: : We need two things immediately. One, a petition to remove this descriminatory 1978 law against residents of the county, and secondly, another petition to remove the authors of this law if they are still in office, and any other person in authority that supports it. I'll drive any distance to sign those petitions. Our tax dollars were used to print and post these signs and will also be used again to remove them, and patrol neighborhoods looking for little kids shooting ladyfinger firecrackers. This travesty of the use of our tax dollars must be exposed with those that have attacked Independence Day.
    • Posted By: Bob: Enforce the law! Many firewoks are dangerous, destructive, and disturbing--especially to pets.
    • Posted By: : I never knew there were so many un-educated people around the state. It even says in the text of the story, that the fire department is not going to be doing extra patrolling, due to staffing. People are very careless with their fireworks in the "uncorperated" area's of the county. You add wind, and some dry wood, or brush.. And you cause a very dangerous situation, and put those "poorly staffed" fire deparments that respond in danger. ****If you live in a town/city in "sedgwick County".. you need to check your local laws. The no fireworks law - is for "uncorprated" - aka *NOT IN CITY LIMITS*
    • Posted By: Michelle: Can't we come to a compromise? Make them illigal everyday of the year, except the 4th? I agree with the ones on here that said we are celebrating our FREEDOM! This is what the USA is about. Hotdogs, baseball and fireworks! 8-)
    • Posted By: Kristy: "But many like Sedgwick County Resident Michael Dixson don't plan on breaking the law." Seriously - someone who writes for a news station should be familiar with proper grammar usage.
    • Posted By: : How ironic it is that it's Independance Day however; they tell you that you can't fire off any fireworks.....at least any that are worth paying money for. Yes, we're slowly on our way to becoming a communist country. I miss Archie Bunker!
    • Posted By: : Why even celebrate??? Pretty sad when Amerians can't participate in the tradation and celebration of America's Indepandance. I feel for you rual Sedwick County people. Sedwick County SUCKS!!
    • Posted By: Tim: The Fire Department IS NOT encouraging people to call 911 every time they see people shooting fireworks, this will create an unnecessary strain on the 911 system. The problem is being worked on and will take time to get things all straightened out. If you have an emergency or a problem that warrants calling 911 by all means call 911. What is not needed is a call to 911 every time you see someone shooting a firecracker.
    • Posted By: : The fire departments are going out of their way with NO FIREWORKS signs just because they don't want to have to work any more than they have to. Little fire here and there disrupts their lazy days of washing the trucks and sleeping and cooking meals!
    • Posted By: topper: at one time you couldn't shoot fire works in dodge, now that we can the 2nd through the 5th i think. i havent heard of more fires or whatever it is you think is going to happen if you were to allow.. its the 4th of july, and you stoping people from celebrating. thats dumb if you ask me. besides, people are going to shoot them off no matter what you do.
    • Posted By: Frankie: The Fire Department says it only enforces the law against fireworks in Sedgwick County, but I've lived here since 1938 and I remember that it was the Sedgwick County Fire Department that pushed for the County Commissioners to pass the illegal fireworks law.
    • Posted By: anoymous: It is a little confusing, because Park City has fireworks tents all over, but I thought Bel Aire and Park City were actually their own "cities", and not part of unincorporated Sedgwick County. And they are allowed in Goddard,I checked out the website. I wish there was a central list posted where they are legal/illegal, because I do think there is confusion about this, especially when I thought I heard people in Bel Aire saying they purchased permits in the past. Can anyone elaborate?
    • Posted By: Debby: If they are illegal why are they sold in the city where they are illegal?
    • Posted By: : Isn't it funny how it's called Independance Day but yet big brother wants to tell us we can't shoot fireworks? Screw you big brother!! I'm firing mine off!!
    • Posted By: Elmer: I saw on the news that you are asking the neighbors to report the people who are using fireworks to the police. Hitler did the same thing when enforcing his laws. Are we coming closer to socialist government, or are you just trying to create a community that is untenable due to loss of trust in neighbors? I can't believe we are repeating history again.
    • Posted By: bob: i think the county is forgetting what we are celebrating, our independence. so they should let us shoot them where you buy them.
    • Posted By: Justin: Land of the Free, My hind end. Restrictions yes, understandable. But, all out ban? This is not the America I fought for!!!!! Maybe before long we won't have any independence to celebrate!!! And I'm sure the fire fighters are just having to do what there told. Heck, most of them love fire or they wouldn't be doing there job.
    • Posted By: : "fire dept only enforces the law" im sure they had a say in how it was created. thats like saying police dont have a quota when writing tickets when im sure they do. how else are police measured when trying for promotions and raises--its by how many tickets they write, how many crimes they solve, ect. people are gonna shoot off fireworks and worry bout what happens later because this is the one time in the year that we get to do so! plus it helps celebrate america's birthday !!
    • Posted By: Mikea: I sure wish there was something we could do about the rednecks who insist on setting off the big heavy skybursts in our neighborhood at 1am every night. Fireworks should be illegal inside the city. Loud car radios are, and fireworks are more dangerous.
    • Posted By: Bob: Ok maybe this is a stupid question, but what is unincorporated Sedgwick County? What is meant by that?
    • Posted By: AJ Simkatu: Everyone knows that fireworks that go up in the sky are illegal, even in the city of Wichita. The problem is that nobody cares. Most people think the ban is a ridiculous overreaction to a small problem. People are sick of the nanny state telling us what we can and can't do with our own lives and property. What's next, ban skydiving, skiing, riding dirt bikes, mountain climbing? The government needs to mind its own business and stay out of ours.
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