The SAPD seized a 9mm handgun from a convicted felon

SAPD Gang Detectives stopped a vehicle for minor traffic violations yesterday, according to their Twitter account.

In plain view, on the front passenger seat of the vehicle was a black box containing a concealed 9mm semi-automatic pistol with a magazine containing 8 bullets.

The driver was a previously convicted felon.

California gun laws prohibit individuals from owning, possessing, or purchasing a gun if they have been convicted of certain offenses. Though California Penal Code 29800 is commonly known as the “felon with a firearm law”, the law also applies to those who have been convicted of certain misdemeanor offenses, according to the law firm Wallin & Klarich.

Under PC 29800, it is a felony offense to have a gun or ammunition if you:

• Have any prior felony offense;
• Have two or more misdemeanor brandishing a weapon convictions under California Penal Code 417; or
• Are addicted to the use of any narcotic drug.

Penalties for violating California’s felon with a firearm law are severe. If you are convicted of illegal possession of a firearm under PC 29800, you face:

• A maximum sentence of three years in county jail;
• A fine of up to $10,000; or
• Both a jail sentence and fine.

The SAPD did not identify the suspect.