Last night, police detectives located a documented gang member with a no-bail warrant at a motel, according to the Fullerton Police Department.
During their investigation, detectives discovered a firearm inside a vehicle the suspect was in. Further investigation led to the arrest of another suspect wanted on a parole warrant, along with the recovery of a second firearm with its serial number removed.
In all, six documented gang members were taken into custody and booked on various firearm- and narcotics-related charges.
Our detectives and officers remain committed to keeping the streets safe by targeting illegal firearms, drugs, and gang activity in our communities.
Here’s a plain-text summary of the penalties and employment impact for the six documented gang members arrested in Fullerton:
Legal Penalties
The suspects face multiple serious charges under California law:
- Gang Participation (Penal Code §186.22(a))
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail and/or $1,000 fine.
- Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail and/or up to $10,000 fine.
- Gang Enhancement (Penal Code §186.22(b))
- Adds 2 to 10 years to the sentence for any felony committed for the benefit of a gang.
- In serious cases (e.g., violent felonies), enhancements can lead to life imprisonment.
- Possession of Firearms
- Unlawful possession: Felony, up to 3 years in prison.
- Possession of a firearm with a removed serial number: Felony, up to 3 years in prison.
- Parole Violation
- Immediate return to prison.
- Additional time added depending on the nature of the violation.
- Narcotics Charges
- Vary by substance and quantity.
- Felony drug possession or trafficking can result in 2 to 5 years or more in prison.
Impact on Employment
A criminal record involving gang activity, firearms, and drugs can severely limit job prospects:
- Background Checks: Most employers will see these convictions and may reject the applicant, especially for roles involving trust, safety, or responsibility.
- Licensing Restrictions: Jobs in healthcare, education, law enforcement, and finance often require clean records. Felony convictions can disqualify applicants.
- Stigma: Gang-related offenses carry a strong social stigma, making it harder to secure interviews or offers.
However, California’s Fair Chance Act offers some protections:
- Employers cannot ask about criminal history until after a conditional job offer is made.
- If they decide to withdraw the offer, they must:
- Provide written notice
- Share the background report
- Allow the applicant to respond with evidence of rehabilitation or dispute the report