On 9/9/2025, at 7 p.m., police officers located a stolen vehicle near Homer St. and Edwards St., according to the Westminster Police Department.
The police officers waited until the vehicle went mobile and then they conducted a felony car stop.
The driver was taken into custody without incident.
The police officers detained a female in the vehicle and learned her child was in the car.
After the police investigation the female and child were released at the scene.
The vehicle was returned to its owner and the driver was booked into the Orange County Jail on felony vehicle theft and possession of stolen property charges.
Based on California law, the suspect arrested on September 9, 2025, in Westminster for felony vehicle theft and possession of stolen property faces the following potential penalties:
1. Felony Vehicle Theft (Grand Theft Auto)
Charged under Penal Code § 487(d)(1) or § 503 PC, this offense involves unlawfully taking a vehicle worth more than $950 with the intent to permanently or significantly deprive the owner of it.
- Classification: Wobbler (can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony)
- Felony Penalties:
- County jail: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
- Restitution: Required to compensate the victim
- Probation: Formal probation may be granted
- Sentence Enhancements:
- Prior convictions or high-value vehicles (e.g., over $65,000 or $200,000) can add 1–2 years to the sentence
2. Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
Charged under Penal Code § 496d, this offense applies when someone knowingly possesses a stolen vehicle.
- Classification: Wobbler
- Felony Penalties:
- County jail: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
- Probation: Possible
- Restitution: May be ordered
Additional Notes
- Repeat Offenders: If the suspect has prior convictions for vehicle theft or similar crimes, penalties may increase to 2, 3, or 4 years.
- Collateral Consequences:
- A felony conviction can affect employment, housing, and immigration status.
- It may also impact driving privileges and insurance rates.