On Friday, September 5 at approximately 9:20 PM, Orange County Sheriff Deputies assigned to North SET conducted a vehicle stop in the City of Stanton.
A search of the vehicle yielded 29.3 grams of methamphetamine, 30.3 grams of fentanyl, a digital scale, over 200 small plastic baggies, and large amount of U.S. currency.
Based on California law, the suspect stopped in Stanton on September 5 faces multiple felony charges due to the possession of methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute. Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties:
1. Possession for Sale of Controlled Substances (Health & Safety Code § 11351)
Because the suspect had:
- 29.3 grams of methamphetamine
- 30.3 grams of fentanyl
- Packaging materials (200+ baggies)
- A digital scale
- Large amounts of cash
These are strong indicators of intent to sell, not personal use.
Penalties:
- Felony charge
- 2 to 4 years in state prison
- Fines up to $20,000
- No eligibility for drug diversion programs
If aggravating factors apply (e.g., prior convictions, proximity to schools), the sentence could be longer.
2. Fentanyl-Specific Penalties (AB 701)
Under California Assembly Bill 701, fentanyl-related offenses are treated with heightened seriousness due to the drug’s potency and public health risks.
Possession with Intent to Sell Fentanyl:
- Felony
- 16 months to 3 years in state prison
- Fines up to $20,000
Distribution or Trafficking:
- 3 to 9 years in prison
- Enhanced penalties if large quantities are involved (e.g., over 1 kg), which can add 3 to 5 years to the sentence.
3. Additional Charges
Depending on the investigation, the suspect could also face:
- Drug trafficking charges (if transportation or distribution is proven)
- Money laundering (if the cash is linked to drug sales)
- Possession of drug paraphernalia (for the scale and baggies)
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