CHP officers recently arrested a man they believed to be under the influence of some sort of drug. It all began when officers in the Newhall CHP station noticed a vehicle stopped in an intersection beyond the limit line. When officers arrived at the scene they initially believed the man had fallen asleep at the wheel – which he did – but unfortunately, it didn’t appear to be innocent sleepiness that knocked the suspect out.

Deputies first noticed an open container of alcohol on the floor of the now suspect’s vehicle. When deputies searched the suspect’s car they discovered paraphernalia related to methamphetamine use, stolen credit cards, and the vehicle the suspect was in also came back stolen. The 25-year-old suspect was taken to the Santa Clarita Sheriff Station to undergo booking and processing. His bail was then set at $25,000.

Grand theft auto is covered under California Penal Code 487(d)(1) PC and is described as taking someone else’s vehicle – worth $950 or more – without permission, and with the intent to deprive the true owner of the vehicle. Felony penalties include 16 months to 3 years in jail, a fine of up to $10,000, or both imprisonment and a fine.

Stolen credit cards are covered under California Penal Code 484e PC and makes it a crime to possess or sell the card itself, the information, of another person without their consent. PC 484e is a “wobbler” that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. When charged as a misdemeanor the potential penalties include up to 1 year in county jail. When charged as a felony the potential jail sentence is increased to up to 3 years.

California Health and Safety Code 11364 HS makes it illegal to possess drug paraphernalia. The crime is a misdemeanor with the potential penalties including six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval is a California Licensed Bail Bondsman and owner of SCV Bail Bonds. Robin writes blogs and articles to help increase community awareness of the bail industry. If you have questions or want to suggest a topic, email robin@scvbailbonds.com, visit www.scvbailbonds.com or call 661-299-2245.
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval

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