Police officers were on patrol at Walmart Sunday night when they spotted a man trying a little too hard to stay off their radar, according to the Irvine Police Department.
Turns out, the man was on probation for drug sales.
A quick search of the suspect’s car made things “crystal” clear.
The officers found methamphetamine, multiple phones, and a pipe.
The 60-year-old man from Santa Ana was arrested for drug sales and booked at Orange County Jail.
Based on California law, here are the potential penalties the 60-year-old man from Santa Ana may face for methamphetamine-related offenses while on probation:
- Possession of methamphetamine for sale (HSC §11378):
- This is a felony offense.
- Punishable by 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail.
- Fines can reach up to $10,000.
- Drug diversion programs are not available for this charge.
- Possession of methamphetamine (HSC §11377):
- Typically a misdemeanor.
- Punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
- May be eligible for drug diversion programs like Proposition 36 or Penal Code 1000, unless the charge is elevated due to prior convictions.
- Probation violation:
- Since the man is already on probation for drug sales, this new arrest likely constitutes a violation of probation.
- Penalties can include:
- Revocation of probation.
- Additional jail or prison time.
- Stricter probation terms or mandatory drug treatment.
- The judge may impose the original suspended sentence from the prior conviction.
The problem with that Walmart is that it is way too close to the Santa Ana city limits.