Early this morning, police officers conducted a traffic stop after observing multiple vehicle code violations, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
The driver was found to be on probation and in possession of drug paraphernalia.
A passenger, who initially gave a false name, was later identified as having multiple felony warrants and was also in possession of fraudulent IDs, stolen credit cards, and drugs.
Both individuals were arrested and booked into the HBPD jail.
The HBPD reminds criminals that Huntington Beach is not the place to commit crimes—HBPD officers remain proactive and are committed to keeping the community safe.
Based on California law, the individuals arrested in Huntington Beach could face the following penalties:
Driver’s Penalties
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Health & Safety Code § 11364 HS):
- Classified as a misdemeanor.
- Punishable by up to 6 months in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
- May also result in professional license suspension if applicable.
- Drug diversion programs may be available for first-time, non-violent offenders instead of jail time.
Passenger’s Penalties
Providing False Identification to Police (Penal Code § 148.9 PC):
- Also a misdemeanor.
- Punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000.
Possession of Stolen Credit Cards and Fraudulent IDs (Penal Code § 484e PC):
- Considered grand theft, a wobbler offense (can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony).
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail.
- Felony: Up to 3 years in county jail.
Outstanding Felony Warrants / Fugitive Status:
- There is no separate charge for being a fugitive, but:
- If the person failed to appear for a felony while out on bail (Penal Code § 1320.5), they face up to 3 years in prison.
- If they escaped custody, additional penalties range from 2 to 6 years in state prison, depending on the circumstances.
- Use of false identity or fraudulent documents to evade arrest can lead to additional felony charges, each carrying up to 3 years in prison.