Recently, deputies were called to Stevenson Ranch after an incident between a man and his ex-girlfriend was reported. According to authorities, the woman was approached by her ex-boyfriend, during which a verbal argument ensued. During the argument, the man threatened her with a machete.
The woman escaped the situation and called the Santa Clarita Sheriff Station shortly thereafter. When deputies arrived at the scene, they located and arrested the male suspect.
He is currently being charged with brandishing a weapon, domestic battery, and criminal threats. He is being held at the SCV Sheriff Station jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.
Brandishing a weapon is covered under California Penal Code 417 PC and is described as drawing or exhibiting a weapon in a threatening manner, or using it in a fight in a situation other than self-defense.
The crime is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
Domestic battery is covered under California Penal Code 243(e)(1) PC and is described as using force or violence against a cohabitant, current or former spouse or dating partner, the parent of your children, or fiancee. Like brandishing a weapon, domestic battery is a misdemeanor. It carries the potential sentences of up to 1 year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
Criminal threats is covered under California Penal Code 422 PC and is described as threatening someone with death or great bodily injury with the intention of (and succeeding in) putting someone in a state of fear for their safety.
PC 422 is a “wobbler” that can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances involved and the defendant’s prior criminal history. When charged as a misdemeanor, the potential penalties include up to 1 year in county jail. When charged as a felony, the potential penalties include up to 4 years in California state prison.