California Penal Code 206 PC: Understanding Torture Charges and Legal Defenses

California Torture Laws: Penal Code 206 PC

California Penal Code 206 – Torture Defense in Los Angeles Under California Penal Code Section 206, torture is a grave and highly severe criminal offense, reserved for cases involving the intentional infliction of extreme pain and suffering. Torture is defined as the deliberate and willful act of causing great bodily injury to another person with […]
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drug possession vs. trafficking under California law with legal thresholds explained

California Drug Laws: How Possession Can Lead to Trafficking Accusations

When Does Possession Turn Into a Charge of Drug Trafficking? In California, drug possession and trafficking are distinct criminal offenses, with trafficking carrying far more severe penalties. While possession generally refers to holding drugs for personal use, trafficking involves the sale, transportation, or distribution of controlled substances. Prosecutors often attempt to elevate simple possession charges […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney discussing Penal Code 32 accessory case with client

Accessory After the Fact Law in California – Penal Code 32 PC

California Penal Code Section 32: Defending Accessory After the Fact Charges Being charged as an accessory after the fact under California Penal Code Section 32 means you are accused of helping someone avoid arrest, trial, or punishment after they’ve committed a felony. This could involve actions like providing shelter, creating a false alibi, hiding evidence, […]
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California Penal Code § 220 PC – Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony. Legal Consultation for Assault with Intent Charges in Los Angeles

Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony – California Penal Code 220 PC

California Penal Code 220 PC: Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony Under California Penal Code 220 PC, it is a serious crime to assault someone with the intent to commit certain violent or sexual felonies. This statute addresses actions where force or threats are used with the specific intent to carry out heinous acts, […]
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DUI defense attorney in Los Angeles discussing case with client after DUI arrest

Strategies for Reducing Felony DUI Charges in Los Angeles

Can A Felony DUI With Injury Be Reduced To A Misdemeanor? A felony DUI with injury is one of the most serious DUI charges in California, governed under Vehicle Code Section 23153. This offense occurs when a driver, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, causes an accident that results in injuries to another person. […]
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Assault with a Deadly Weapon in California | Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorneys

Case Result: Felony Assault with a Deadly Weapon Charges Dismissed

Assault with a Deadly Weapon Attorney in Los Angeles Felony assault with a deadly weapon, under California Penal Code Section 245(a)(1), is one of the most serious violent crime charges a person can face in California. This charge encompasses any act involving a weapon with the potential to cause serious harm—even if no actual injury […]
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Penal Code § 267 PC - Abducting a Minor for Prostitution

Self-Defense Leads to Dismissal of Felony Battery Charges in Los Angeles

California Penal Code 243(d): Felony Battery with Serious Bodily Injury Facing a felony battery charge in California can have severe consequences. Under California Penal Code Section 243(d), felony battery with serious bodily injury is a serious offense that carries the risk of up to four years in state prison, fines, and a criminal record that […]
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California misdemeanor defense lawyer

Understanding Felonies in California: Serious Crimes, Legal Consequences, and Your Defense Options

What Is a Felony in California? Under California law, a felony is a serious criminal offense that carries severe penalties, including imprisonment in state prison, significant fines, and other long-lasting consequences. Felonies are distinguished from misdemeanors and infractions by the severity of the crime and the corresponding punishment. A crime is classified as a felony […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney explaining felony evading charges

When is Evading an Officer a Felony in California?

What Does It Mean to Evade an Officer in California? In California, evading an officer involves a driver deliberately attempting to flee from a peace officer who is pursuing them. According to California Vehicle Code Section 2800.1, a person is guilty of evading if they, while operating a motor vehicle, willfully flee or attempt to […]
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How Does California Law Treat First-Time Offenders?

First-time offenders often have access to various programs aimed at rehabilitation rather than punishment. These programs can lead to reduced charges or even dismissal of charges upon successful completion. Understanding these options is critical for minimizing the long-term impact of a criminal charge. California law provides several options for first-time offenders, including diversion programs, probation, […]
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Legal Analysis: Ryan Garcia Arrested for Felony Vandalism at Beverly Hills Hotel

  On June 8, 2024, boxing star Ryan Garcia was arrested by the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) for felony vandalism at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills hotel. The incident, which involved significant property damage, has drawn considerable media attention and raised legal questions about the potential charges and penalties Garcia might face. Circumstances of […]
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Los Angeles criminal defense attorney discussing pandering case with client

Understanding Prostitution Laws in Los Angeles

  Understanding prostitution laws is crucial for Los Angeles residents due to the severe legal consequences associated with these offenses. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of prostitution laws, related activities, and their legal implications to help residents navigate these complex issues. What is Considered Prostitution in Los Angeles? Prostitution in Los Angeles is defined […]
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Preliminary Hearings in California Felony Cases

Facing felony charges in California can be an overwhelming experience. One of the critical steps in the felony criminal process is the preliminary hearing. Understanding the significance of preliminary hearings and what to expect can greatly impact the outcome of your case. This guide provides valuable insights into the role of preliminary hearings in felony […]
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Does Failing a Sobriety Test Guarantee a Conviction in California?

Does Failing a Sobriety Test Guarantee a Conviction in California? Facing DUI charges can be overwhelming, and the role of sobriety tests in these cases is critical. Sobriety tests are used by law enforcement to assess whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Understanding these tests, their accuracy, and how they […]
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Is Vandalism a Felony or Misdemeanor in California?

  What is Vandalism Under California Law? Vandalism, under California law, is defined as the act of maliciously damaging, destroying, or defacing any property that belongs to someone else. This definition is grounded in California Penal Code Section 594, which outlines the specific actions that constitute vandalism. Whether the property in question is public or […]
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Marine’s Death Leads to Charges for 18-Year-Old San Bernardino Teen

SAN BERNARDINO, CA — Rudy Garcia Jr., an 18-year-old from San Bernardino, has been charged with a series of violent crimes that occurred on May 20, 2024. These charges include the murder of USMC Gunnery Sgt. Robert McDonald and the attempted murder of two other individuals. On May 20, 2024, Garcia allegedly murdered USMC Gunnery […]
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Murder Charge Reduced to Voluntary Manslaughter by Attorney Arash Hashemi

Charges: PC 187(a)-F Murder PC 192(a)-F Voluntary Manslaughter Case Overview: Case Title: The People of the State of California vs. T.D.V Case Number: BA47452**** Filing Date: January 23, 2019 Arrest Date: December 26, 2018 Filing Courthouse: Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center Case Type: Felony Judge: Hon. Judge Robert C. Vanderet Incident Background On the […]
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Marijuana DUI in California: Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities

What Constitutes a Marijuana DUI in California? In California, driving under the influence of marijuana constitutes a violation of Vehicle Code 23152(f). This law makes it illegal to operate a vehicle if you are impaired by marijuana or any other drug. Being “under the influence” means that due to marijuana consumption, your physical or mental […]
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California Felonies Reduced to Misdemeanors Legal Process Overview

How to Reduce Felony Charges to Misdemeanors in California

If you’re currently facing felony charges, you understandably may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about your future. However, in California, certain felony charges can be reduced to misdemeanors under specific conditions. Understanding your options for charge reduction is not just a legal formality—it’s a crucial component of your defense strategy that could significantly alter the outcome […]
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Riverside Police Crack Down on Drug Trade with “Operation Street Sweeper’

Photo Credit: (OPERATION “STREET SWEEPER” NETS OVER 100 ARRESTS ALONG MAGNOLIA CORRIDOR) Via: www.riversideca.gov   “Operation Street Sweeper” targeted drug-related activities along the Magnolia Avenue corridor in Riverside, Southern California. Law enforcement agencies conducted this major drug bust over a three-week period, resulting in numerous arrests and significant disruption to the local drug trade. The […]
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FBI Most Wanted poster of Cesar Villareal for 2010 Los Angeles County murder

Wanted Man Sought by FBI for Deadly 2010 Shooting in Los Angeles County

Photo Credit: (https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/murders/cesar-villarreal) The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has intensified its search for Cesar Villareal. They placed him on the FBI’s Most Wanted list due to his alleged role in a 2010 fatal shooting in Los Angeles County. In response to these allegations, the FBI offers a reward of up to $5,000 for information […]
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California’s Three-Tier Sex Offender Registration System

The primary purpose of the sex offender registry is to enhance public safety by monitoring individuals who have committed sex crimes. This registry serves as a preventive measure, aiming to reduce the chances of recidivism by making information available to the public about registered sex offenders. It helps communities stay informed about the presence of […]
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Orange County Sober Living Home Owner Faces Federal Indictment for Kickback Scheme

  Federal authorities recently arrested Scott Raffa, charging him with illegal activities connected to his Orange County sober living homes. Raffa allegedly paid nearly $175,000 in kickbacks to “body brokers” to attract new patients to his facilities. This arrest occurred at Los Angeles International Airport, and he faces these charges in the United States District […]
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The California Wobbler Offense Explained: Charges, Reductions, and Expungements

In California, a ‘wobbler’ offense is uniquely flexible within the criminal justice system, characterized by its ability to be charged and punished either as a felony or a misdemeanor. The distinction between these two levels of charges typically depends on the specifics of the case, including the severity of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the […]
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Marina del Rey Shooting Suspect Charged, Faces Life in Prison if Convicted

On April 13, 2024,e Victoryloc Vinh Nguyen reportedly fired over 90 rounds in an unprovoked shooting spree at a Marina del Rey apartment complex, targeting civilians and law enforcement officers. Remarkably, no injuries were reported. In response, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced multiple charges against Nguyen on April 16, 2024. Charges Against […]
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Kanye West Identified as Suspect in Los Angeles Battery Case Following Alleged Assault on Wife

On April 16, 2024, Los Angeles police named Ye, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, as a suspect in a battery case. Authorities allege that Ye punched a man during a physical altercation. This incident reportedly followed a physical engagement involving Ye’s wife, Bianca Censori. Witnesses and reports indicate that the altercation occurred at […]
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When Does Petty Theft Escalate to a Felony in Los Angeles?

Petty theft, under California law, refers to the theft of property whose value does not exceed $950. This type of theft is classified as a misdemeanor, reflecting its lower severity compared to grand theft. California Penal Code Section 484 defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property when the property’s value is […]
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Anaheim Police Seek Man After Disturbing Animal Abuse Caught on Tape

In a disturbing instance of animal cruelty in Anaheim, California, law enforcement officials are currently seeking a man involved in a severe case of animal abuse. Captured on surveillance footage on April 7th, near Brookhurst Street and the 5 Freeway, the suspect is seen engaging in the violent act of dropkicking a small puppy, in […]
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Can You Refuse a Breathalyzer Test in California?

if you’re pulled over for suspected DUI, law enforcement is likely to request a breathalyzer test to assess your BAC. While complying is often advised, should you choose to refuse, it’s vital to understand the resulting legal and practical consequences. Refusing a breathalyzer under the state’s implied consent law, which you agree to by driving, […]
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Legal Insight: Navigating the Intersection of AI, Privacy, and Law in the Laguna Beach High School Incident

The Laguna Beach Unified School District and local law enforcement are investigating the circulation of AI-generated nude photos of students online. This incident raises significant legal questions, particularly regarding the creation and distribution of explicit images using artificial intelligence. The investigation began after it was discovered that nude photos of students, generated by artificial intelligence […]
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Three Mexican Nationals with Over 1 Million Fentanyl Pills Plead Guilty in Los Angeles

Guilty Plea to Federal Narcotics Charge In Los Angeles, three men from Sinaloa, Mexico, admitted their roles in a drug trafficking operation. Florencio Camacho Allan, Gerardo Gaxiola Patiño, and Alex Valdez Oroz pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. This charge implicates them in a scheme to distribute over […]
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Comprehensive Guide to California DUI Penalties

DUI Defense at The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi Facing a DUI charge in California can lead to significant consequences, including fines, license suspensions, and possible imprisonment. The DUI laws are extensive and strictly applied by both the criminal justice system and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, […]
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What to Expect During a Criminal Trial in Los Angeles

Defendant’s Right to Have a Lawyer In California, every criminal defendant has the right to legal representation. This right is guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. If a defendant cannot afford a lawyer, the court will appoint one. This is known as a public defender. Defendants can also choose to hire a […]
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Key Elements Required for Establishing Conspiracy Charges

Understanding Criminal Conspiracy Charges A criminal conspiracy charge arises under the following conditions: You and at least one other person agree to commit a crime. You intend to commit the crime. You or a co-conspirator perform an overt act towards committing the crime. Liability for conspiracy does not require you to personally commit an unlawful […]
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Police Allege California Pastor Paid Hitmen to Murder Daughter’s Boyfriend

Samuel Pasillas, a 47-year-old pastor from Victorville, California, got arrested on March 13 amid severe legal issues. Accusations against him include orchestrating a murder-for-hire plot targeting his daughter’s boyfriend, sparking significant public interest. The attack happened on October 21, 2023, in Riverside’s Orangecrest neighborhood. The target, shot at several times while driving, survived and got […]
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California felony vs. misdemeanor legal differences, penalties, and classifications.

Understanding the Difference Between Felony and Misdemeanor Charges in California

Crime Categories in California: Infractions, Misdemeanors, and Felonies Explained Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies. They typically result in shorter jail times, smaller fines, and are considered less serious. For instance, a DUI without aggravating factors often leads to a misdemeanor charge. In contrast, felonies, the most severe category of crime, can lead to long […]
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How the Fourth Amendment Protects You During Vehicle Searches in California

The Fourth Amendment’s Influence on Vehicle Searches in California The Fourth Amendment requires probable cause for law enforcement to search vehicles, aiming to prevent unreasonable searches and seizures. Vehicle searches in California adhere to this, with laws allowing adaptations due to vehicles’ dynamic nature. In California, searches need probable cause, in line with the Fourth […]
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Former Law Firm Office Manager Sentenced for Embezzling Over $1.1 Million

Jairo Tomas Santos, ex-office manager of a San Francisco law firm, received a 36-month prison sentence for embezzling over $1.1 million. The Hon. William H. Alsup, United States District Judge, also ordered Santos to pay $1,191,638.64 in restitution. United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp announced this. […]
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Former Attorney for Foster Children Charged with Child Pornography Crimes in Los Angeles

Charles Aghoian, 61, previously a supervising attorney for a nonprofit, faces charges related to child sexual abuse material (CSAM). He voluntarily surrendered to federal law enforcement and pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in downtown Los Angeles’s United States District Court. Specific Charges Against Aghoian The indictment charges Aghoian with three counts of distributing and […]
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Unlawful Search and Seizure in California

Unlawful Search and Seizure California’s search and seizure laws strive to harmonize law enforcement practices with the protection of individual rights, safeguarding against unlawful search and seizure without valid legal grounds. Both the Fourth Amendment and state legislation in California provide these safeguards. However, not every search and seizure is illegal. Law enforcement is permitted […]
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Orange County Resident Admits Guilt in Planned Parenthood Firebombing

Tibet Ergul, a 22-year-old from Irvine, California, admitted to orchestrating a series of planned attacks, including a firebombing at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Costa Mesa in March 2022, plotting against an electrical substation in Orange, and targeting Dodger Stadium during an LGBTQ pride event. His guilty plea encompasses one felony count of conspiracy to […]
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Overview of California Criminal Statute of Limitations for Misdemeanors and Felonies

Criminal Statute of Limitations in California: Key Insights for Felonies and Misdemeanors

Statute of Limitations in Criminal Cases California law defines a time limit for prosecutors, both federal and state, to bring criminal charges against someone. If charges come after this time limit, courts will dismiss them. This rule protects people from the anxiety of facing charges for long-past actions. It promotes prompt legal action while upholding […]
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Underage DUI In California: Laws and Penalties

Understanding Zero Tolerance Laws in California California enforces zero tolerance laws to address underage drinking and driving, prohibiting individuals under 21 from operating a vehicle with any detectable alcohol in their system. These laws reflect a stringent approach to prevent the risks associated with underage drinking. Under California’s zero tolerance policy, it is a criminal […]
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Los Angeles Third Time DUI :: Los Angeles Third Time DUI Attorney

Third DUI Offense in Los Angeles: Penalties and Defense Options

Los Angeles DUI Defense Attorney for Third Offense Cases Facing a third DUI charge within 10 years in Los Angeles is a serious matter, as penalties escalate with each subsequent offense. A third conviction can result in steep fines, extended jail time, and significant restrictions on your driving privileges. California enforces strict DUI laws to […]
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Over Six Years in Prison for Drug Dealer Arrested with 15 Pounds of Fentanyl

  Melvin Alexis Diaz Arteaga, 30, from Oakland and a citizen of Honduras, received a 78-month federal prison sentence for six drug charges. These charges were related to his activities in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district, where he was involved in the sale and intent to sell fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. The sentencing, announced by […]
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Honduran Fentanyl Dealer in Tenderloin Sentenced to Six Years for Ghost Gun Possession

United States District Judge James Donato sentenced 28-year-old Honduran national Esmun Moyses Moral-Raudales to 6.5 years in prison. He received this sentence for distributing dangerous drugs in San Francisco’s Tenderloin District. Moral-Raudales pleaded guilty to distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl. Charges and Admission Moral-Raudales pleaded guilty in October 2023 to charges under 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) […]
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Federal Sentencing of San Bernardino Brothers for Armed Robbery and Homicide

A court has sentenced two brothers, Martrell Patrick Shaw, 20, and Rontrell Brainell Shaw, 22, to federal prison for their roles in the armed robbery and murder of a marijuana dealer in San Bernardino in July 2021. Along with their cousin Dillion Jones, the Shaw brothers meticulously planned and carried out the robbery, which tragically […]
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