Currently, deputies working out of the Santa Clarita Sheriff Station are looking for suspects who are believed to have brandished a firearm during a smash-and-grab theft near Starbucks on Lyons Ave.

According to reports, two suspects were witnessed smashing a car window and stealing phones and a laptop from inside. Apparently, one of the suspects flashed what appeared to be a silver-colored handgun during the incident. It’s unknown what kind of gun it was or whether it was a gun at all.

California Penal Code 417 PC makes it illegal to brandish a deadly weapon or firearm. To “brandish” a weapon, according to California law, is to “draw or exhibit the weapon in a threatening manner, or by using it in a fight.” When a weapon is brandished in an incident that is otherwise regarded as lawful self-defense, no charges are filed.

Examples of Brandishing a Weapon
  • Picking up a baseball bat and using it to threaten someone
  • Opening up your coat to reveal a gun
  • Wielding a sword in a threatening way

Generally speaking, PC 417 is charged as a misdemeanor, as opposed to a felony or an infraction, so it’s considered to be a mid-tier crime by some. The punishment for misdemeanor charges is anywhere from 3 months to 1 year in county jail. If someone brandishes a weapon at a school, the crime is still a misdemeanor. However, if it happens at a daycare center that is currently open, the crime becomes a “wobbler” that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances of the case.

Do You Need SCV Bail Bonds for Brandishing a Weapon Charges?

If someone is arrested and taken into custody on brandishing a weapon charges in the SCV, you’ll need to bail them out of jail somehow. If you’re able, you can pay a cash bond directly to the court clerk. Or, if you have property, you can use that as collateral.

If you need to get someone out of jail right away, or if you’re trying to do it in a way that isn’t expensive, SCV Bail Bonds can help. Call us any time of day or night to speak immediately with a bail bondsman who can quickly answer any and all of your questions.

Robin Sandoval

Robin Sandoval

Robin Sandoval is a California Licensed Bail Bondsman and owner of SCV Bail Bonds. Robin writes blogs and articles to help increase community awareness of the bail industry. If you have questions or want to suggest a topic, email robin@scvbailbonds.com, visit www.scvbailbonds.com or call 661-299-2245.
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval
Robin Sandoval

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