O.C. vehicle theft suspects arrested after a dangerous high speed police pursuit

Last week, a vehicle came into town and dropped off suspect(s) who stole a vehicle from a hotel, according to the Newport Beach Police Department.

Officers and detectives worked diligently to obtain evidence and leads. Fast forward to Friday at 6:31 p.m., that same car triggered the NBPD’s Flock cameras as it re-entered the city.

Officers quickly spotted the car near Fashion Island, and that’s when things took off. The suspects drove erratically and lead NBPD officers on a dangerous pursuit, intentionally ramming police vehicles and even uninvolved drivers in a desperate attempt to escape. But horsepower doesn’t outrun teamwork. Despite the vehicle pushing 900 horsepower, the suspects couldn’t outrun justice.

After a brief foot chase, all three were taken into custody, no injuries to officers, suspects, or the public.

Potential Charges and Penalties:

1. Felony Reckless Evading (VC § 2800.2)
   • Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
   • Fine: Up to $10,000
   • Other: Vehicle impoundment, license suspension
2. Assault with a Deadly Weapon (PC § 245(a)(1))
   • Prison: 2 to 4 years (more if injuries occurred)
   • Fine: Up to $10,000
   • Note: This is a strike offense under California’s Three Strikes Law
3. Felony Hit and Run (VC § 20001)
   • Prison: Up to 4 years if injury occurred
   • Fine: $1,000 to $10,000
4. Resisting Arrest (PC § 148(a)(1))
   • Jail: Up to 1 year
   • Fine: Up to $1,000

Aggravating Factors:

• Use of a high-powered vehicle
• Endangering the public
• Damaging police vehicles
  These could lead to sentence enhancements, restitution, and stricter probation terms.

Art Pedroza Editor

Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions. When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.

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