Police detectives are asking for the public’s help in locating a homeless man wanted for commercial theft, Jason Ray Sentz, age 43, according to the SAPD.
Sentz is wanted for a commercial robbery that occurred at 413 W. 17th St., where he forced entry into a commercial building and stole copper wiring, causing a loss of approximately $15,000 to the business owner.
Sentz is homeless and he is known to frequent the area of 1st Street and Main Street.
If you have any information on his whereabouts, please contact: Detective J. Guidry: (714) 245-8530, jguidry@santa-ana.org or SAPD Watch Commander: (714) 245-8700.
Jason Ray Sentz, if apprehended and convicted for the commercial burglary involving copper wire theft, could face the following penalties under California law:
Charge: Commercial Burglary (Penal Code § 459 PC)
This is considered second-degree burglary, which applies to non-residential structures like businesses.
Classification
- Wobbler offense: It can be charged either as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances and the suspect’s criminal history.
If Charged as a Misdemeanor
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Informal probation may be granted instead of jail time
If Charged as a Felony
- 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail
- A fine of up to $10,000
- Formal probation may be granted depending on the case
Additional Factors
- The theft amount (~$15,000) exceeds the $950 threshold, making felony charges more likely.
- Copper theft may be considered a crime of moral turpitude, which can affect immigration status or professional licenses.
- If Sentz has prior convictions, especially theft-related, it increases the likelihood of a felony charge.
- He may also face restitution orders to repay the business owner for the damages.