Last Tuesday, the Irvine Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) conducted surveillance on a suspect wanted for narcotics sales and burglary.
The police officers located the suspect at a storage facility in Santa Ana.
The suspect ran from the IPD detectives when he saw them.
Unfortunately for the suspect, the IPD’Our ‘s drone was overhead and saw the suspect throw a backpack over a fence.
The suspect was taken into custody, and the backpack was recovered.
Inside, the officers found additional drugs.
Detectives searched his storage unit and found several guns, a stolen vehicle, and multiple stolen license plates.
The suspect was booked at Orange County Jail for possessing a stolen vehicle, weapons violations, and drug charges.
The suspect arrested by Irvine Police faces multiple serious charges under California law. Here’s a summary of the potential penalties for each offense:
1. Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
- Charge Type: Wobbler (can be a misdemeanor or felony)
- Penalties:
- Misdemeanor: Up to 364 days in county jail
- Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail
- If the suspect has prior convictions, the sentence can increase to 2, 3, or 4 years
2. Weapons Violations
These could include illegal possession of firearms, possession by a felon, or possession of stolen firearms.
- Misdemeanor Weapons Charges:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Felony Weapons Charges:
- 1 to 20 years in prison, depending on the offense and criminal history
- Examples include:
- Possession of a firearm by a felon
- Possession of an assault weapon
- Brandishing a weapon
3. Drug Charges
The severity depends on the type and quantity of drugs found, and whether the suspect intended to sell them.
- Simple Possession:
- Usually a misdemeanor, with up to 1 year in jail
- Possession for Sale:
- Felony, with 2 to 4 years in prison
- Additional time if near schools or involving minors
- Repeat Offenders or Large Quantities:
- Can lead to enhanced sentences, including state prison time
Combined Impact
Because the suspect faces multiple felony charges, the court may impose consecutive sentences, meaning the total time served could be several years or more. Prior convictions, gang affiliations, or use of weapons during crimes could further increase penalties.