Two armed suspects were arrested after a traffic stop in coastal O.C. at 4 a.m.

After police officers stopped two vehicles in south Laguna Beach around 4 a.m., they found one subject in possession of a loaded gun, according to the Laguna Beach Police Department.

The other motorist was also in possession of a firearm.

Both suspects were arrested and their vehicles were impounded.

About the Firearms

Left Revolver

• Appears to be a Smith & Wesson Military & Police (M&P) Model, likely chambered in .38 Special.
• This design dates back to the early 1900s, and the specific styling (wood grips, exposed hammer, long barrel) suggests it could be from the 1940s–1960s era.
• Heavy wear and patina indicate it’s an older piece, possibly several decades old.

Right Revolver

• Looks like a small-frame snub-nose revolver, possibly a Colt Detective Special or similar clone, chambered in .38 Special.
• The short barrel and ivory-colored grips were popular in the 1950s–1970s, though similar designs persisted into the 1980s.
• Condition seems better than the first gun, but still vintage.

Here are the potential penalties under California law for the situation described above:

• Carrying a Loaded Firearm in Public or in a Vehicle (Penal Code §25850)
  • Normally charged as a misdemeanor:
    • Up to 1 year in county jail
    • Fine up to $1,000
  • Can be charged as a felony (a “wobbler”) if aggravating factors apply, such as:
    • Prior felony conviction
    • Firearm was stolen and suspect knew it
    • Suspect is a gang member
    • Suspect is prohibited from possessing firearms
    • Prior convictions for violent or drug-related crimes
    • Felony penalties: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison, and fines up to $10,000
• Carrying a Concealed Firearm Without a Permit (Penal Code §25400)
  • Also a misdemeanor in most cases:
    • Up to 1 year in county jail
    • Fine up to $1,000
  • Can become a felony if:
    • Prior felony or firearm offense
    • Firearm was stolen
    • Suspect is a gang member
    • Suspect is prohibited from owning firearms
    • Felony penalties: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison, and fines up to $10,000
• Vehicle Impound & Additional Consequences
  • Vehicles used in the commission of these offenses can be impounded.
  • Conviction may lead to loss of gun rights, probation, and possible immigration consequences for non-citizens.