Fri. Nov 28th, 2025

The Irvine Police Department is asking for your help to identify a man who brandished a knife during a confrontation at the Taco Bell in the University Town Center.

The man appears to be white. He is overweight with an unfortunate haircut that is dark and parted in the middle with ling bangs. He was wearing a black outfit with a gray shirt.

If you recognize him please contact Officer Chambers at DChambrrs@cityofirvine.org.

Possible California Charges & Penalties

  • Brandishing a Deadly Weapon – Penal Code §417If someone unlawfully brandishes a knife in a threatening manner: Misdemeanor (most common): Up to 1 year in county jailUp to $1,000 fineProbation, community service, or anger-management conditions
  • Felony (if done in a public place or with certain aggravating factors): 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail.
  • Assault with a Deadly Weapon (ADW) – Penal Code §245(a)(1) If the confrontation involved threatening movement or an attempt to injure:
  • Felony: 2, 3, or 4 years in state prisonUp to $10,000 fine
  • Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jailPossible fines and probation.
  • Criminal Threats – Penal Code §422If the suspect verbally threatened someone with serious harm:Up to 1 year in county jail (misdemeanor)Up to 4 years in state prison (felony).
  • Additional Factors That Could Increase Penalties
  • Prior criminal history
  • Whether someone was injured
  • Whether the knife was used offensively or defensively
  • Location (a busy public area can enhance penalties).

By Art Pedroza

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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