Last night, police officers were called to an apartment complex on Hayes to investigate a suspicious man walking around and possibly looking into windows, according to the Irvine Police Department.
The man had short black hair, a mustache, a blue t-shirt, khaki pants, and black Nike shoes.
If you recognize this man, please contact wakraus@cityofirvine.org.
Based on the behavior described above — a man walking around an apartment complex and possibly looking into windows — the suspect could face the following penalties under California law:
- Peeking While Loitering (Prowling)
- California Penal Code § 647(i)
- This law makes it a misdemeanor to loiter or wander on private property and peek into windows or doors of an inhabited building without a lawful purpose.
- Penalty:
- Up to 6 months in county jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Possible summary probation with conditions like restitution or progress reports
- No requirement to register as a sex offender for this offense
- Loitering to Commit a Crime
- California Penal Code § 647(h)
- Applies if the person was lingering with the intent to commit a crime (e.g., burglary or invasion of privacy).
- Penalty:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- May include community service or counseling
If the suspect is found to have been attempting to commit a more serious crime (e.g., burglary or voyeurism), additional charges could apply. Police would need to establish intent and gather evidence to support those charges.