Earlier today, the Garden Grove Police Department’s Gang Suppression Unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle.
K9 police dog “Rocky” was called in to assist and immediately alerted officers to the presence of drugs in the vehicle.
A search uncovered a significant amount of cash and cocaine.
Huge shoutout to the GSU and K9 Rocky for their outstanding work in keeping our streets safe!
In California, the penalties for cocaine possession and trafficking vary based on the specifics of the offense:
Possession of Cocaine
- Simple Possession: Generally treated as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. Many cases can be dismissed through drug diversion programs like Proposition 36 or Penal Code 1000 PC.
- Possession with Intent to Sell: Classified as a felony, carrying a sentence of 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison.
Trafficking of Cocaine
- Selling/Transporting (Trafficking): This is a serious felony with penalties ranging from 3, 4, or 5 years in state prison. If the cocaine is transported across more than two county lines with the intent to sell, the penalty increases to 3, 6, or 9 years.
- Aggravating Factors: Additional penalties may apply if certain aggravating factors are present, such as transporting large quantities or involving minors in the distribution.
