On November 19, Orange County Sheriff deputies initiated a traffic stop near Pacific Coast Highway and Doheny Park Road that rapidly escalated, according to the Dana Point Police Services.
The deputies pulled over a vehicle, but the driver made a split-second decision to accelerate away instead of remaining at the stop.
The pursuit came to an end when the driver crashed and then attempted to flee on foot. the deputies closed in and safely detained him shortly after.
A search of the vehicle revealed a loaded firearm and a GPS jammer. The driver also showed clear signs of being under the influence of a controlled substance.
The investigation confirmed prior use of methamphetamine and additional narcotics earlier in the day.
The suspect was booked into jail on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including DUI, evading, resisting arrest, and firearm-related violations. His attempt to avoid consequences was not successful!
Here’s a breakdown of the likely penalties the suspect faces under California law based on the charges noted above:
1. DUI Under the Influence of Methamphetamine
- Vehicle Code 23152(f) prohibits driving under the influence of drugs.
- Penalties for a first offense:
- Fines: $390–$1,000 plus court fees.
- Jail: Up to 6 months in county jail (often probation for first-time offenders).
- License suspension: 6 months.
- Mandatory DUI education program.
If this is not the first offense or if aggravating factors exist (like fleeing police), penalties can increase significantly.
2. Evading Police (Vehicle Code 2800.2)
- Classified as a felony when done recklessly.
- Penalties:
- 16 months to 3 years in state prison.
- Fines up to $10,000.
- Possible vehicle impoundment.
3. Resisting Arrest (Penal Code 148)
- Usually a misdemeanor.
- Penalties:
- Up to 1 year in county jail.
- Fines up to $1,000.
4. Firearm-Related Violations
- Possession of a loaded firearm in a vehicle without a permit can be a misdemeanor or felony, depending on circumstances.
- Penalties:
- Up to 1 year in county jail (misdemeanor) or 16 months to 3 years in state prison (felony).
- Fines up to $1,000 or more.
Additional Factors
- Prior methamphetamine use and narcotics possession can add charges.
- Combined offenses often lead to stacked sentences, meaning multiple years in prison if convicted on all counts.