July 6, 2012

A 17-year-old boy was arrested in the early morning hours of June 30 in Santa Paula after a two hour long search that began with a police shootout. The incident apparently began when the boy allegedly walked across the street when the traffic signal was red, according to The Ventura County Star.

Two Santa Paula Police officers drove into the parking lot of a shopping center to talk to the boy after he had walked across the street with a red signal. The suspect allegedly pulled out a handgun and shot at the officers, who returned fire and took cover. Officers shot the boy in the hand, who then fled, resulting in officers searching for him for two hours, eventually arresting the suspect outside of an apartment complex.

The suspect was treated for his injuries at Santa Paula Hospital, booked at the Santa Paula Police Department, and transferred to Juvenile Hall. He was held on suspicion of two counts of attempted homicide of a police officer and was on probation with outstanding warrants on weapons allegations.

A crime of this nature can result in a variety of criminal charges as well as sentencing enhancements beyond attempted homicide. Being convicted as a felon in possession of a firearm in Ventura can result in a year imprisonment and a $1,000 fine under California Penal Code 12021. Additionally, California's “10-20-Life Use a Gun and You're Done” law in Penal Code 12022.53 PC can result in 20 years in prison for firing a gun in commission of a violent felony.

If your child is facing criminal charges, Santa Paula juvenile crime defense attorney Daniel E. Kann has the skills and resources to provide a proper defense against charges and penalties. The penalties a juvenile can incur for crimes may have repercussions lasting well after their teen years. For a confidential and free consultation on your case, call the Law Offices of Daniel E. Kann today at (805) 290-4932.