Santa Ana Street Terrorism Defense

Street Terrorism Charges & Penalties

The California Street Terrorism Enforcement and Prevention Act (STEP) refers to Section 186.20 of the California Penal Code. This Act details specific treatment of gang-related cases and laws relating to those convicted of such crimes, such as the requirement to register with a law enforcement agency upon release. It states that any crime committed in connection with or on behalf of a gang is subject to increased penalties. Where this applies, it can severely increase the consequences of conviction, sometimes adding years to an already lengthy prison sentence. Having a Santa Ana criminal defense attorney fighting by your side is vital if you are to have a strong chance of avoiding this devastating outcome.

Gang enhancements can be applied to any crime, from drug crimes to vandalism. In some cases, misdemeanor charges can be increased to felony charges. This is particularly dangerous in California, where the "three strikes law" demands a second or third felony offense carry a doubled penalty or 25 years to life, respectively. Your legal counsel can work to establish factors which show your arrest of the evidence against you is legally invalid, that you are not affiliated with a gang and that you are not guilty of the alleged crime, nor street terrorism.

Santa Ana Criminal Lawyer

Mr. Schaffer's 18 years as a gang homicide prosecutor with the Orange County District Attorney's Office gives him an unparalleled command of this subject. He was also responsible for training police officers and other DA's of the Orange County Gang Investigator's Association and instructing them on how to qualify a gang. Knowing every aspect of street terrorism prosecution inside and out means he can predict the arguments and tactics that will be used against you in your case and be prepared to effectively counteract them. Our entire firm is dedicated to fighting for your rights and freedom.

Contact a Santa Ana criminal defense attorney if you have been accused of a street terrorism offense.