Recently, a male suspect climbed over the wall of the Bowers Museum, located at 2002 N. Main Street, and entered the maintenance area, according to the SAPD.
The suspect then took several spray paint cans from the location and spray-painted, “S.O.S.,” “W.W.3.,” “NSA,” and “Pentagon” on the ground, causing several hundred dollars in damages.
(Editor’s Note – Hopefully the tagger did not spray “NSA” because he is a fan of the New Santa Ana blog).
Suspect Description: Male, Hispanic, 15-20 years old, wearing all black clothing, and white shoes.
If you have any information about this suspect or similar cases, please contact Investigator V. Hernandez at (714) 245-8372 or VHernandez@santa-ana.org.
Based on California law, here’s a plain-text summary of the potential penalties the suspect could face for vandalism and trespassing, especially considering the suspect is believed to be a minor (15–20 years old):
Vandalism (California Penal Code 594)
For minors, vandalism is typically handled in juvenile court, which focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Possible penalties include:
- Probation (either informal or formal)
- Restitution (paying for the damages caused)
- Community service (often involving cleanup or repair)
- Counseling (sometimes for both the minor and their parents)
- Curfew restrictions
- Mandatory school attendance
- Diversion programs (if completed successfully, charges may be dropped)
In more serious cases (e.g., extensive damage or repeat offenses), the minor could be sent to a juvenile detention facility or probation camp.
Trespassing (California Penal Code 602)
Trespassing is usually charged as a misdemeanor, even for minors.
Typical penalties include:
- Up to 6 months in county jail (though minors are rarely jailed)
- Fines up to $1,000
- Probation or diversion programs
- Community service or restitution
If the trespassing involved threats or was part of a more serious crime, it could be considered aggravated trespass, which carries harsher penalties, including possible felony charges.
Parental Responsibility
In California, parents may be held financially responsible for fines or restitution if the minor cannot pay.