Mon. Oct 6th, 2025

In August, police officers responded within minutes to a burglary in progress at a local restaurant, according to the Fountain Valley Police Department.

The business manager provided a suspect description from live surveillance footage, which showed the suspect forcing entry through a rear door using a crowbar.

The officers quickly located the suspect on foot nearby and took him into custody without incident.

The suspect was found to be in possession of stolen property and burglary tools.

Further investigation linked the suspect to multiple other burglaries across Orange County.

The suspect was booked on several burglary-related charges.

Based on California law as of 2025, here are the potential penalties the suspect may face for the described crimes:

  • Second-Degree Burglary (Commercial Burglary):
    • This applies since the burglary occurred at a restaurant, a commercial property.
    • Classified as a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
    • Misdemeanor penalty: Up to 1 year in county jail.
    • Felony penalty: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail.
  • Possession of Burglary Tools (Penal Code § 466):
    • This is typically charged as a misdemeanor.
    • Penalties may include:
      • Up to 6 months in county jail.
      • A fine of up to $1,000.
      • A criminal record, which can affect future employment and housing.
  • Possession of Stolen Property:
    • Also a “wobbler” offense.
    • Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail.
    • Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail, depending on the value of the stolen items and prior criminal history.
  • Multiple Burglary Charges:
    • If linked to multiple burglaries across Orange County, the suspect could face additional felony charges for each incident.
    • This could significantly increase the total sentence, especially if charges are not consolidated.

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.

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