WESTMINSTER, CA – The Orange County Probation Department (OC Probation) carried out a targeted enforcement operation this week, focusing on high-risk offenders released from prison under Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS).
Probation officers conducted unannounced compliance checks in neighborhoods across the county. During the searches, officers confiscated narcotics, weapons, and paraphernalia, resulting in three arrests. Several probationers were also referred to drug treatment programs, reflecting the department’s dual focus on accountability and rehabilitation.
Division Director Shawn Barry underscored the importance of this work: “These compliance operations are about more than removing dangerous contraband from our neighborhoods. They send a clear message that probationers will be held accountable while also connecting them with the resources needed to change their path. Our goal is to protect the community while giving individuals on supervision the opportunity to succeed.”
Operation Results
- 3 Arrests
- Seized Contraband:
- 14.9 grams of cocaine
- 12 grams of methamphetamine
- 3 grams of crack cocaine
- 5 bottles of Alprazolam (Xanax)
- 8 methamphetamine pipes with residue
- 6 cans of inhalants (“dusters”)
- 1 folding knife with a 3.5-inch blade
- 1 digital scale and multiple small baggies
- 2 debit cards not belonging to the probationer
- 1 cell phone
- Foil containing heroin concealed in a probationer’s sock
Protecting Communities, Creating Opportunities
The Orange County Probation Department conducts regular operations to safeguard neighborhoods, reduce crime, and promote rehabilitation. Through these efforts, the department balances accountability with second chances. Officers hold probationers accountable for their actions, while also working to connect them with the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Based on California law and Orange County practices, the individuals arrested during the recent OC Probation enforcement operation could face the following penalties:
1. Drug Possession (Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Crack, Heroin, Xanax)
- Misdemeanor Possession (Prop 47): For small amounts intended for personal use, possession is typically charged as a misdemeanor.
- Penalties: Up to 1 year in county jail, fines up to $1,000, and/or probation.
- Diversion Programs: First-time or non-violent offenders may qualify for drug diversion (e.g., Prop 36 or PC 1000), allowing treatment instead of jail.
- Felony Possession: If the amount is large, or if there’s evidence of intent to sell (e.g., digital scale, baggies), charges may be elevated to a felony.
- Penalties: Up to 3 years in state prison, higher fines, and longer probation.
2. Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Pipes, Foil, Scale)
- Health & Safety Code §11364 HS: Possession of items used to consume controlled substances is a misdemeanor.
- Penalties: Up to 6 months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- Diversion Eligibility: Often eligible for drug diversion programs if no other serious charges are involved.
3. Possession of Controlled Prescription Drugs (Alprazolam/Xanax) Without Prescription
- Treated similarly to other controlled substances.
- Penalties: Misdemeanor or felony depending on quantity and context; up to 1 year in jail or more if combined with other offenses.
4. Probation Violation (PRCS)
- Violating PRCS terms (e.g., possessing drugs or weapons) can lead to:
- Flash incarceration (up to 10 days without a court hearing),
- Formal revocation hearings,
- Extended supervision, or
- Return to custody for the remainder of the original sentence.
5. Possession of a Weapon (Folding Knife)
- If the knife is not prohibited by law (e.g., not a switchblade or concealed dirk/dagger), it may not be illegal on its own.
- However, possession while on probation can still be a violation, especially if it’s considered a condition breach.
6. Possession of Stolen Property (Debit Cards, Cell Phone)
- Penal Code §496 PC: Possession of stolen property is a wobbler (can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony).
- Penalties: Up to 1 year in jail (misdemeanor) or up to 3 years in prison (felony), plus fines