The Santa Ana Police Department’s Directed Enforcement Unit carried out a triple operation yesterday, targeting three smoke shops in the City.
The results:
- 7 arrests for outstanding warrants, illegal nitrous oxide sales, and gambling-related offenses
- $4,500 in seized cash
- 621 NOS canisters
- 2,000 flavored vapes
- 3,500 assorted flavored tobacco products
Here are the likely penalties under California law for the offenses mentioned:
- Outstanding Warrants
- Arrest warrants do not expire and require a court appearance. Penalties depend on the underlying offense. For misdemeanors, failure to appear can lead to additional charges and up to 6 months in jail plus fines.
- Illegal Nitrous Oxide Sales (Penal Code §381b)
- Selling or possessing nitrous oxide for recreational use is a misdemeanor. Penalties include up to 6 months in county jail and fines up to $1,000. Repeat violations or distribution with intent can lead to harsher consequences, including license revocation for businesses.
- Flavored Vape and Tobacco Product Violations (SB 793, AB 935, AB 3218, SB 1230)
- Retail sale or possession with intent to sell flavored tobacco products is prohibited. Each violation is typically an infraction with a $250 fine per item, but recent laws allow seizure of products and increased civil penalties for repeat offenders. Local ordinances may impose stricter penalties.
- Gambling-Related Offenses (Penal Code §330)
- Operating or participating in illegal gambling (banking or percentage games) is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines between $100 and $1,000.