What started as a traffic stop foar tinted windows and a stop-sign violation on a Saturday night, quickly turned into a major weapons seizure, according to the Newport Beach Police Department.
Officers were in the area of Sherington Place and Irvine Avenue when they observed a black Mercedes with illegally tinted front windows not stopping at a stop sign. Officers conducted a traffic stop and identified the driver who had an active warrant.
A search of the vehicle revealed a loaded Ruger 9mm handgun hidden in the center console.
But that was just the beginning! Inside the trunk, officers uncovered:
- A 100-round high-capacity drum magazine
- Hundreds of rounds of ammo (9mm, .357, .22 LR, 5.56, 12-gauge)
- Firearm cleaning kits and accessories
A further investigation and search warrant at the driver’s residence led to the discovery of three illegal assault rifles, including AK-47s and an AR-15, all non-compliant with California regulations.
The driver was arrested and booked on multiple felony charges, the evidence was booked, and the case was forwarded to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.
Based on California law, the suspect in the Newport Beach weapons seizure case could face multiple serious penalties stemming from various violations. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Possession of Illegal Assault Weapons
California bans certain assault weapons under Penal Code §§ 30510 and 30515. Possession of unregistered or non-compliant assault rifles like AK-47s and AR-15s is a felony.
- Penalty: Up to 3 years in state prison and fines exceeding $10,000.
2. Possession of Large-Capacity Magazines
Under Penal Code § 32310, magazines holding more than 10 rounds are illegal to possess, sell, or transport.
- Penalty:
- Infraction: Up to $100 per magazine
- Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
- Felony (for selling, transporting, or manufacturing): 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail
3. Felon in Possession of a Firearm
If the driver had an active felony warrant or prior felony conviction, possessing any firearm (like the loaded Ruger 9mm) violates Penal Code § 29800.
- Penalty: Felony charge with 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail, plus fines up to $10,000
4. Possession of Ammunition by a Prohibited Person
California law also prohibits felons from possessing ammunition.
- Penalty: Additional felony charges, often bundled with firearm possession, carrying similar sentencing.
5. Traffic Violations (Stop Sign & Window Tint)
These are infractions under the California Vehicle Code:
- Stop Sign Violation (VC § 22450): Fine around $238, plus 1 DMV point
- Illegal Window Tint (VC § 26708):
- Fix-it ticket or fine of $25–$197
- No DMV points unless combined with other violations
6. Potential Sentence Enhancements
If any of the weapons were linked to gang activity, used in a crime, or found near a school zone, enhancements under Penal Codes §§ 12022 and 626.9 could apply.
- Penalty: Additional years in prison, possibly triggering California’s Three Strikes Law
Summary
The suspect is likely facing multiple felony charges, including:
- Illegal possession of assault weapons
- Possession of large-capacity magazines
- Felon in possession of a firearm
- Possession of ammunition
- Traffic infractions
Depending on prior convictions and the DA’s approach, the total sentence could range from several years in state prison to decades, especially if enhancements apply.
The post A coastal O.C. traffic stop led to a huge illegal weapon seizure first appeared on New Santa Ana.