The Irvine Police arrested two probationers on drug, ammunition and DUI charges

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The Irvine Police arrested two probationers on drug ammunition and DUI charges

Yesterday, the Irvine Police Department’s Specialized Investigations Unit (SIU) Detectives conducted a surprise probation compliance search at an Irvine man’s home.

Detectives found narcotics, a large sum of cash, high-capacity magazines, and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition.

Picture Courtesy of the Irvine Police Department

Ven Nguyen, 37, of Irvine, was arrested and booked at Orange County Jail for possessing narcotics and controlled substances, possession of a controlled substance for sale, and a prohibited person in possession of ammunition.

A second man, who was leaving the area, was stopped and arrested for DUI. He was also on PRCS.

From the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation: Postrelease Community Supervision (PRCS) is a form of supervision provided to an inmate who has been released from a California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) institution to the jurisdiction of a county agency, pursuant to the Postrelease Community Supervision Act of 201

In California, the penalties for a man on probation arrested for these offenses can be quite severe. Here’s a breakdown:

  1. Possessing Narcotics and Controlled Substances:
    • Simple Possession: This can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the substance and quantity. Penalties include up to 1 year in county jail for a misdemeanor, or 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison for a felony.
  2. Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sale:
    • Intent to Sell: This is typically charged as a felony. Penalties include 2, 3, or 4 years in state prison, and fines up to $20,0003. If the substance is cocaine or heroin, or if there are prior convictions, the penalties can be much harsher, ranging from 3 to 30 years in prison and fines up to $8,000,000.
  3. Prohibited Person in Possession of Ammunition:
    • Felon or Prohibited Person: This can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Penalties for a misdemeanor include up to 1 year in county jail and fines up to $1,000. For a felony, penalties include 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000.

Given the combination of these charges, the individual could face significant prison time and substantial fines. Additionally, being on probation means that any new offense can lead to a probation violation, which may result in additional penalties and revocation of probation.

A probationer arrested on DUI charges in California faces significant consequences. Here are the key points:

  1. Probation Violation: Being arrested for DUI while on probation is considered a violation of probation terms. This can lead to a revocation of probation, meaning the individual may have to serve the original jail sentence that was previously suspended.
  2. Additional Penalties: Besides the probation violation, the individual will face the usual penalties for a DUI offense, which can include:
    • Fines: $390 to $1,000.
    • Jail Time: Depending on whether it’s a first, second, or subsequent offense, jail time can range from 2 days to 1 year.
    • License Suspension: The driver’s license could be suspended for 6 months to 4 years.
    • DUI Classes: Mandatory attendance at DUI education programs.
  3. Zero Tolerance Rule: Probationers must adhere to a stricter blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of below 0.01% while driving, compared to the standard 0.08% for non-probation drivers.
  4. Ignition Interlock Device (IID): The court may require the installation of an IID, which prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver’s breath.

Overall, a probationer arrested for DUI in California can expect severe repercussions, including extended probation, increased fines, mandatory jail time, and stricter driving restrictions.

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Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions.

When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.