Two proactive traffic stops on Tuesday night resulted in three arrests, according to the Huntington Beach Police Department.
At approximately 11:00 p.m., an HBPD police officer conducted a traffic stop for vehicle code violations. During the investigation, the driver was found to be on probation and in possession of drug paraphernalia and suspected methamphetamine. The driver was taken into custody.
Just a few hours later, the same officer initiated another proactive traffic stop for vehicle code violations. During that stop, the officer discovered the driver was operating a vehicle with a suspended license, in possession of an illegal switchblade, drug paraphernalia, and had five outstanding arrest warrants.
The passenger was also found in possession of contraband, including drug paraphernalia and suspected methamphetamine. Both individuals were arrested.
These stops serve as a reminder that traffic enforcement matters and often lead to the removal of dangerous individuals and illegal items from our streets. Huntington Beach is not the place to commit crimes, traffic-related or otherwise.
Based on the crimes described in the Huntington Beach Police Department’s report and current 2026 California law, the suspects face several significant legal penalties.
Driver 1: Probationer with Methamphetamine
- Possession of a Controlled Substance (HS 11377a): Usually a misdemeanor, carrying up to one year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (HS 11364): A misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in county jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Probation Violation: Because the driver was already on probation, this arrest triggers a revocation hearing. A judge may revoke probation and order the individual to serve the entire original sentence that was previously suspended.
Driver 2: Suspended License, Switchblade, and Warrants
- Driving on a Suspended License (VC 14601.1a): A misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000 for a first offense.
- Possession of an Illegal Switchblade (PC 21510): A misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in county jail and a $1,000 fine.
- Outstanding Arrest Warrants: The driver faces immediate detention to address five active warrants. These warrants do not expire and will lead to additional court dates, potential bail forfeiture, and sentencing for the original underlying crimes.
- Drug Paraphernalia: Faces an additional misdemeanor charge of up to six months in jail.
Passenger: Methamphetamine and Paraphernalia
- Possession of a Controlled Substance: Similar to Driver 1, this is generally a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail.
- Drug Paraphernalia: Faces up to six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Summary of Potential Maximum Penalties
| Violation | Standard Max Jail Time | Standard Max Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Methamphetamine Possession | 1 Year | $1,000 |
| Drug Paraphernalia | 6 Months | $1,000 |
| Suspended License | 6 Months | $1,000 |
| Switchblade Possession | 6 Months | $1,000 |
| Probation Violation | Varies (Original Sentence) | Varies |