The Santa Ana Police Department’s Quality of Life Team, in collaboration with City Net and Landscape West, conducted an early-morning quality-of-life operation to help keep the community safe and clean on Friday morning.
Results
- 86 arrests (13 felonies, 73 misdemeanors)
- 4 individuals connected with shelter services
The video released by the SAPD of the sweep indicated that their targets were transients. They conducted a similar sweep this year on Thanksgiving week.
Suspects arrested in Santa Ana quality-of-life operations face penalties categorized by the severity of the charge under California law. While “quality-of-life” sweeps typically focus on low-level public nuisance offenses, the Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) often targets activities such as illegal gambling, narcotics, and trespassing.
Misdemeanor Penalties
The majority of arrests (73 in the recent operation) are misdemeanors. Common quality-of-life misdemeanors include public intoxication, petty theft, trespassing, or lodging in public without permission.
- Jail Time: Up to six months or one year in county jail, depending on the specific code.
- Fines: Generally up to $1,000, though some specific offenses can reach $2,000.
- Probation: Suspects may be placed on informal or summary probation for one to three years.
Felony Penalties
Thirteen felony arrests were recorded in the recent sweep. These often involve more serious offenses encountered during sweeps, such as possession of narcotics for sale, possession of firearms, or outstanding felony warrants.
- Incarceration: A minimum of 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison or county jail.
- Fines: Often significantly higher, sometimes up to $10,000.
- Long-term Restrictions: Convicted felons may lose rights such as the ability to vote, own firearms, or serve on a jury.
Alternative Outcomes
- Shelter and Outreach: Operations often include the H.E.A.R.T. program and City Net to connect individuals with services, though only four individuals were successfully connected in the latest sweep.
- Diversion Programs: Some individuals may be eligible for prosecutorial-led diversion programs that replace jail time with rehabilitative services.