71 citations were issued at a commercial enforcement checkpoint in north Orange County

On Wednesday, the Fullerton Police Traffic Bureau collaborated with the California Highway Patrol and commercial enforcement units from across Southern California to conduct a Commercial Enforcement Checkpoint on East Orangethorpe Avenue, between South State College Boulevard and Acacia Avenue.

This multi-agency operation included Motor and Commercial Enforcement Officers from the following departments:

• California Highway Patrol
• Ontario Police Department
• Garden Grove Police Department
• Rialto Police Department
• City of Chino Police Department
• Pomona Police Department
• Tustin Police Department
• Irvine Police Department
• Culver City Police Department
• Anaheim Police Department
• Riverside County Sheriff’s Office
• San Bernardino Police Department
• Beaumont Police Department – Beaumont, CA

The mission was to keep Fullerton’s roadways safe by ensuring that commercial vehicles operate legally, safely, and within designated truck routes. Through both fixed and roving inspections, officers identified violations, enforced compliance, and removed unsafe vehicles from service when necessary.

From 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., officers completed the following:

• 121 commercial vehicle inspections
• 71 citations were issued
• 13 vehicles were placed out of service
• 14 vehicles were towed

Various citations were issued for offenses, including driving without a license or out of class, expired registration, unsecured loads, improper cargo securement, and air brake issues.

Holding commercial drivers accountable helps protect not only the residents of Fullerton but also the surrounding communities through which these vehicles pass. Safer trucks lead to safer roads for everyone.

The FPD sends a huge thank you to all of their partner agencies for their collaboration and ongoing commitment to roadway safety. Fullerton is safer because of their teamwork.

Here are the typical penalties these drivers could face in California for the cited violations:

California Vehicle Code requires air brake systems to meet strict standards; failure can lead to citations and operational restrictions.

Driving Without a License or Out of Class

• Can be charged as an infraction or misdemeanor.
• Infraction: Fine up to $250.
• Misdemeanor: Up to 6 months in jail and/or up to $1,000 fine.
• Vehicle may be impounded for up to 30 days in some cases.

Expired Vehicle Registration

• Late fees start at $10–$30 for 1–10 days overdue and can exceed $250 if more than 60 days late.
• Additional penalties include CHP late fees and percentage surcharges on the vehicle license fee.
• Driving with expired registration can lead to citations, court appearances, and even vehicle impoundment for repeated or long-term lapses.

Unsecured Loads / Improper Cargo Securement

• Violations of California Vehicle Code §§23114 and 23115 can result in fines typically ranging from $100 to $500 per violation.
• If the unsecured load causes debris or an accident, penalties can increase significantly and may include misdemeanor charges.
• Commercial carriers may also face FMCSA penalties and out-of-service orders for non-compliance.

Air Brake Issues (Commercial Vehicles)

• Vehicles with defective air brakes can be placed out of service immediately under FMCSA rules.
• Penalties vary but often include fines for equipment violations and possible CDL restrictions if the driver lacks proper air brake certification.