Earlier this month on October 3, at approximately 10 p.m., Orange County Sheriff Deputies located 153 grams of methamphetamine during a vehicle stop in unincorporated Anaheim, according to OCSD North Patrol.
Less than a week later, on October 9 at 12:06 a.m., North SET deputies stopped another vehicle in unincorporated North Orange County—recovering 15 grams of cocaine, 17 vials of ketamine, 13 grams of meth, and over $1,000 in cash.
North Deputies remain dedicated to stopping the flow of dangerous drugs in our communities.
The suspects in these cases likely face felony charges with potential prison sentences ranging from several years to decades, depending on the specific charges and prior criminal history.
Here’s a breakdown of the possible penalties under California law:
- Possession of methamphetamine (Health & Safety Code §11377)
- Simple possession: misdemeanor or felony, up to 1 year in jail or 16 months to 3 years in prison.
- Possession for sale (Health & Safety Code §11378): felony, 2 to 4 years in prison.
- Possession of cocaine (Health & Safety Code §11350)
- Simple possession: misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail.
- Possession for sale (Health & Safety Code §11351): felony, 2 to 4 years in prison.
- Possession of ketamine (Health & Safety Code §11377)
- Usually charged as a misdemeanor for personal use.
- Possession for sale (Health & Safety Code §11379.2): felony, 2 to 4 years in prison.
- Large quantities and cash found
- The presence of large amounts of drugs and cash may lead to charges of possession with intent to distribute, which carry harsher penalties.
- Prosecutors may also pursue drug trafficking charges, especially if the suspects have prior convictions.
- Enhancements and aggravating factors
- If weapons were found or if the suspects have prior drug convictions, sentencing enhancements could apply, increasing prison time.
- Drug offenses near schools or involving minors can also trigger additional penalties.
- Diversion programs
- First-time offenders may be eligible for drug diversion or rehabilitation programs, which can lead to dismissal of charges upon successful completion.
Sentencing will ultimately depend on the exact charges filed, the suspects’ criminal records, and whether plea deals are reached. Let me know if you’d like help understanding how these laws apply in federal cases or how sentencing enhancements work.