This morning at 6 a.m., the Huntington Beach Police Department’s Homeless Task Force, Union Pacific Railroad, and the Westminster Police Department joined forces to address ongoing issues at the 405 Freeway underpass along the railroad.
As a result of this coordinated effort:
- Six individuals were arrested and transported to the HBPD jail, where they were offered services.
- Union Pacific Railroad employees cleaned up a significant amount of accumulated trash, restoring the area.
- This operation demonstrated strong collaboration between agencies to address concerns at a complex jurisdictional boundary.
Arrest charges included: - Trespassing on railroad tracks
- Trespassing on Caltrans property
- Possession of narcotics
- Possession of narcotics with priors
- Possession of narcotic paraphernalia
- Outstanding warrants were served
The HBPD thanks their officers and partner agencies for working together to improve public safety and cleanliness in the community.
In California, individuals arrested under these circumstances could face multiple charges and penalties:
- Warrants: If the individuals have outstanding warrants, they will be taken into custody and face the legal consequences associated with those warrants.
- Narcotics and Narcotic Paraphernalia: Possession of narcotics and paraphernalia can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the type and quantity of drugs. Penalties may include fines, probation, and jail time.
- Trespassing: Trespassing on railroad property is a misdemeanor under California Penal Code § 369i. This can result in up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,00065. Trespassing under a freeway may also be considered a violation of California Penal Code § 602, which carries similar penalties.
These charges can be compounded, leading to more severe consequences.
