Even during the holidays, criminals don’t take a break; unfortunately for them, neither do the police in Huntington Beach.
Early yesterday morning, an observant resident spotted suspects burglarizing a storage trailer and did exactly the right thing by calling it in to the HBPD.
Thanks to the quick tip and a good vehicle description, an officer on patrol located the suspects’ vehicle as it attempted to make a getaway.
Officers stopped the vehicle and found stolen property and burglary tools inside.
Both of the suspects were arrested and transported to the HBPD jail.
The HBPD offers big thanks to the community for looking out for one another. Remember: crime doesn’t pay in Huntington Beach!
Based on the details provided and California law for 2025, these suspects typically face charges for burglary and possession of burglary tools.
- Second-Degree Burglary (Penal Code 459): Burglary of a storage trailer (a non-residential structure) is generally classified as second-degree burglary. This is a “wobbler” offense that can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.
- Felony Penalties: If charged as a felony, suspects face 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail and fines of up to $10,000.
- Misdemeanor Penalties: If charged as a misdemeanor, they face up to one year in county jail and a maximum fine of $1,000.
- Possession of Burglary Tools (Penal Code 466): Possession of items such as crowbars or screwdrivers with the intent to break into a structure is a misdemeanor.
- Penalties: This charge carries a sentence of up to six months in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
- Possession of Stolen Property: Found property in the vehicle may lead to additional charges. Under laws effective in 2025 (AB 2943), possessing stolen goods valued over $950 with intent to sell is a wobbler that can carry up to three years in jail.
For specific legal assistance or to report further information on Huntington Beach cases, you can contact the HBPD at (714) 960-8811 or OC Crime Stoppers at (855) TIP-OCCS to remain anonymous.