Last night, gang detectives were conducting proactive enforcement in the area of 400 S. Main St. when they stopped a vehicle for code violations, according to the SAPD.
During the investigation, a passenger admitted to having narcotics inside. Detectives searched the vehicle and recovered 14 kilograms of Xanax bars, methamphetamine, and evidence of narcotics sales.
An adult male and adult female were arrested and booked at the Santa Ana Jail for narcotics sales and transportation.
Under California law, the penalties for the adult male and female arrested in Santa Ana for narcotics sales and transportation can be quite severe. Here’s a summary of what they may be facing:
1. Sale or Transportation of Controlled Substances (Health & Safety Code § 11352)
This law applies to substances like Xanax (a Schedule IV drug) and methamphetamine when sold or transported illegally.
Penalties include:
- Felony conviction
- 3, 4, or 5 years in state prison for basic offenses 1
- Up to 9 years in prison if drugs were transported across county lines 2
- Fines up to $20,000
2. Aggravating Factors
If certain conditions apply, penalties can be increased:
- Large quantities (like 14 kilograms) may trigger enhanced sentencing
- Prior convictions for drug offenses
- Sales near schools, shelters, or detox centers
- Involvement of minors
3. Methamphetamine-Specific Charges (Health & Safety Code § 11379)
Methamphetamine is covered under a separate statute. Penalties are similar:
- 2, 3, or 4 years in prison
- Additional time for transporting across county lines or involving large amounts
4. Possession for Sale
Even if they didn’t sell the drugs directly, having large quantities and packaging materials can lead to charges of possession for sale, which also carries felony penalties.