According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney Office’s website, Los Angeles County alone is home to over 1,400 gangs. Street crime throughout Southern California, particularly Orange County and Los Angeles County, exacts heavy tolls on communities. To counteract this toll, investigators and prosecutors often form interagency gang task forces to get crimes under control. In turn, the District Attorney’s office may also issue injunctions against specific gangs or even specific gang members.
What Are Some Common Gang Crimes
- Vandalism
- Second degree robbery
- Assault and battery, including assault with a deadly weapon
- Vehicle theft
- Public fighting
- Loitering
- Resisting arrest
- Obstructing police officers in the line of duty
- Possessing concealed weapons
Is There A Law In California Specifically Forbidding People From Joining Gangs?
Yes. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 186.22, it is against the law to join and act in concert with crime gangs. The code states:
“Any person who actively participates in any criminal street gang with knowledge that its members engage in or have engaged in a pattern of criminal gang activity, and who willfully promotes, furthers, or assists in any felonious criminal conduct by members of that gang, shall be punished by imprisonment in a county jail for a period not to exceed one year, or by imprisonment in the state prison for 16 months, or two or three years.”
If I Get Arrested For Being In A Gang, Am I Guaranteed Jail Time?
Not necessarily. The nature of your participation in a group crime, your age, your past criminal history (if any), and the type of crime committed will all determine how prosecutors will seek to punish you. In some cases, you may be able to plea bargain your charge down to a lesser offense. In other cases, you may be able to opt for rehabilitation over jail time and/or other punishments.
How Do I Know Which Southern California Gang Crime Attorney Will Give Me The Best Defense?
Reputable, experienced Orange County criminal defense attorneys, like David A. Stein, typically provide free, anonymous consultations with potential clients. Whether you’ve been arrested for a relatively minor gang related crime, such as vandalism or loitering, or you’re due to stand trial for murder or another serious violent crime, Attorney David Stein will bring an arsenal of good judgment and valuable experience to your case to provide you with a solid defense. Find out more by calling (949) 445-0040 today for a no-cost consultation.
