The SAPD’s QOLT (Quality of Life Team) squad joined forces with the Union Pacific Police, Savage Security, and City Net representatives to address trespassing and quality-of-life issues along two high-priority railroad corridors in Santa Ana.
This operation led to:
- 23 Total Arrests
- 7 Felony Arrests
- 16 Misdemeanor Arrests
- 13.1 grams Total Narcotics Seized
- 1 Individual Sheltered
- 13 Outstanding Warrants Cleared
The SAPD Quality Of Life Team (QOLT)
The QOLT focuses on homelessness-related issues, collaborating with city departments, county resources, and community partners to address unauthorized encampments, abandoned property, and the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. Through the Homeless Evaluation Assessment Response Team (H.E.A.R.T.), the department provides immediate assistance, long-term solutions, and connections to services such as shelters, mental health support, and housing programs.
Proactive policing and engagement
Homelessness requires a multi-faceted approach involving faith-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, volunteers, and other stakeholders. Many individuals face challenges such as mental health issues, substance abuse, and physical limitations. While homelessness is not a crime, the needs of the community must be balanced with those of the homeless population, including the use of public spaces.
The Santa Ana Police Department strives to help individuals transition toward a better quality of life through a balanced approach of services, community support, and compassionate enforcement. Enforcement is coupled with alternatives, offering solutions to reduce negative interactions with law enforcement.
Union Pacific Railroad Police
The Union Pacific Police Department Special Agents have have primary jurisdiction over crimes committed against the railroad. The department is responsible for all Union Pacific locations across 32,000 miles of track in 23 states. Its success has served as a model for national crime management; the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation’s creation in 1907 was closely tied to the Union Pacific Police Department’s approach.
Railroad police are certified state law enforcement officers with investigative and arrest powers both on and off railroad property in most states. They also have interstate law enforcement authority pursuant to federal law.
Union Pacific Police are dispatched by a centralized dispatch center in Omaha, NE. The Response Management Communications Center (RMCC) is staffed 24×7 with dispatchers prepared to coordinate response by UP Special Agents and other UP responders.
Here’s a summary of the penalties the suspects may face from the Santa Ana railroad corridor operation:
1. Felony Arrests (7 people)
- Prison time: 2 to 9 years
- Fines: Up to $50,000 or more
- Penalties can increase if the person has prior convictions or gang ties
2. Misdemeanor Arrests (16 people)
- Jail time: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fines: Up to $1,000
- Some may qualify for probation or diversion programs
3. Narcotics Seized (13.1 grams)
- Simple possession: Usually a misdemeanor
- Possession with intent to sell: Felony, 2–4 years in prison, up to $20,000 in fines
- Type of drug and amount can affect the severity of charges
4. Outstanding Warrants (13 cleared)
- Penalties depend on the original charges
- May include jail time, fines, or additional charges for failing to appear in court
5. One Individual Sheltered
- Likely referred to social services instead of facing criminal charges