Thu. Sep 11th, 2025

On August 14, 2025, two suspects broke into a home in the area of the 1300 block of E. 4th Street through an unlocked rear window, stealing over $2,000 in personal items before fleeing on foot, according to the SAPD.

Earlier this week, SAPD patrol officers located and arrested Suspect #1, James Thomas Moyna, in the area of 2721 block of S. Hotel Terrace.

Suspect #2 remains outstanding and is described as a Hispanic male, medium build, in his 30s, last seen wearing a black hoodie with “K9” on the front, black shorts, and black shoes.

If you have any information about his identity, please contact Detective J. Guidry at (714) 245-8530 or jguidry@santa-ana.org.

Based on California law, the suspects involved in the August 14, 2025, residential burglary in Santa Ana are likely facing the following penalties:

1. Burglary Charges (Penal Code § 459 PC)

Since the crime involved unlawful entry into a residence with the intent to commit theft, it qualifies as first-degree burglary, which is always charged as a felony in California.

Penalties for first-degree (residential) burglary include:

  • 2, 4, or 6 years in California state prison
  • fine of up to $10,000
  • Felony probation may be granted in some cases
  • It counts as a “strike” offense under California’s Three Strikes Law 

2. Theft Charges (Penal Code § 487 PC)

The suspects stole over $2,000 in personal items, which qualifies as grand theft under California law (the threshold is $950).

Penalties for grand theft include:

  • As a misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine up to $1,000
  • As a felony16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail and/or a fine up to $10,000
  • The charge may be elevated depending on prior convictions or aggravating circumstances 1

Additional Considerations

  • If the suspects have prior felony convictions, sentencing enhancements may apply (e.g., additional prison time).
  • If the victim was elderly, disabled, or under 14, further enhancements could be added.
  • Probation may be possible, but only under mitigating circumstances.
  • Immigration consequences may apply if the suspects are non-citizens, as theft and burglary are considered crimes of moral turpitude.

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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