On 4/2/2025, at approximately 130 p.m., police officers were patrolling in the area of Kramer Ave and Moran St. when they noticed a vehicle occupied by three males with expired registration, according to the Westminster Police Department.
The police officers made contact with the subjects and subsequently searched the driver who had a loaded rifle magazine in his pocket.
Officers continued their investigation and detained all three subjects without incident.
After removing the subjects the police officers located a loaded un-serialized short barrel rifle on the driver floorboard.
The driver was taken into custody. It was later determined the driver was on probation and a convicted felon with a history of weapons violations.
The driver was ultimately booked at the Orange County Jail for multiple felonies.
In California, the situation described above involves multiple serious offenses, each carrying significant penalties:
- Expired Plates: Driving with expired plates can result in a citation with fines starting at $25 but often rising to $200 or more after additional fees. Prolonged neglect can lead to vehicle impoundment.
- Probation Violation: Being pulled over while on probation can lead to a probation violation, which may result in additional penalties such as extended probation, fines, or even jail time.
- Convicted Felon with Weapons Violations: A convicted felon found in possession of a firearm, especially with a history of weapons violations, faces severe penalties. Under California Penal Code 29800, this is a felony punishable by up to three years in state prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Loaded Un-serialized Short Barrel Rifle: Possessing a short-barreled rifle is illegal under California Penal Code 33215. This can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, carrying up to three years in jail. Additionally, possessing an unserialized firearm is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in county jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both.
Given the combination of these offenses, the individual could face substantial legal consequences, including extended imprisonment and significant fines. It’s crucial to consult with a legal professional to understand the full scope of potential penalties and defenses.
And this is why police should be able to conduct a stop for expired tags. Yet CA passed AB 256 making it a secondary infraction– tying the hands of police for social engineering reasons. Ridiculous! Vote the pro-criminal lawmakers OUT!