A recent traffic stop resulted in the arrest of two suspects following a brief vehicle pursuit, according to the Fountain Valley Police Department.
The female driver was booked on charges including fraud, probation violations, and traffic offenses.
The male passenger, who fled on foot and discarded a firearm, was taken into custody for firearm-related charges, outstanding warrants, and additional violations.
Here’s a summary of the potential penalties for the two suspects arrested in Fountain Valley:
Female Driver
Charged with:
- Fraud
- Probation Violations
- Traffic Offenses
Fraud
- Fraud charges vary widely depending on the type (e.g., identity theft, credit card fraud).
- Typical Penalty: Up to 1 year in county jail for misdemeanors, or up to 3 years in state prison for felonies.
- Fines can range from $1,000 to $10,000, plus restitution to victims.
Probation Violations
- Violating probation can lead to:
- Revocation of probation
- Reinstatement of original sentence
- Additional jail time
- Extended probation or stricter conditions 1
Traffic Offenses
- These are usually misdemeanors or infractions.
- Penalties may include:
- Fines
- Points on license
- Possible jail time if the offense involved reckless driving or evasion.
Male Passenger
Charged with:
- Firearm-related offenses
- Outstanding warrants
- Fleeing on foot
Firearm-Related Charges
- If the firearm was illegally possessed or discarded during a crime:
- Felony charges may apply.
- Penalties include up to 3 years in state prison, and a lifetime firearm ban if previously convicted of a felony.
Outstanding Warrants
- Warrants remain active until resolved.
- Arrest leads to:
- Immediate custody
- Penalties depend on the original offense tied to the warrant.
Fleeing on Foot / Resisting Arrest
- Under Penal Code §148(a)(1), resisting or fleeing from officers is a misdemeanor.
- Penalty: Up to 1 year in county jail and/or a $1,000 fine.