Wed. Oct 29th, 2025

Yesterday, police officers working with Code Enforcement, conducted an operation at the Sunshine Village Motel on E. First Street, according to the Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD).

10 individuals were arrested for various offenses.

The property was red-tagged for safety violations. The motel has been boarded up and inoperable.

This joint effort helps keep our neighborhoods safe and improves quality of life for nearby residents and businesses.

The suspects arrested at the Sunshine Village Motel could face a range of penalties depending on the specific offenses committed.

Here are potential penalties under California law:

  • Drug possession (e.g., methamphetamine, heroin, paraphernalia):
    • Misdemeanor or felony depending on the substance and quantity.
    • Penalties range from up to 1 year in county jail to 3 years in state prison.
    • May include mandatory drug counseling or diversion programs.
  • Outstanding warrants or probation violations:
    • Penalties vary based on the original offense.
    • Could result in reinstated jail/prison time, revocation of probation, or additional charges.
  • Trespassing or unlawful lodging (Penal Code § 602):
    • Misdemeanor offense.
    • Punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or fines up to $1,000.
  • Loitering with intent to commit a crime (Penal Code § 653.22):
    • Misdemeanor.
    • Penalties include up to 6 months in jail and community service.
  • Possession of stolen property (Penal Code § 496):
    • Misdemeanor or felony depending on value.
    • Penalties range from up to 1 year in jail to 3 years in prison.
  • Safety code violations (for property owners or managers):
    • Civil and criminal penalties.
    • May include fines, mandatory repairs, or revocation of business licenses.
  • Red-tagging consequences:
    • The property is deemed unsafe for occupancy.
    • Owners may face code enforcement actions, court orders, and financial penalties until violations are resolved.

Each suspect’s penalty will depend on their individual charges, prior criminal history, and whether they qualify for diversion or plea agreements.

By Art Pedroza

Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions. When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.