California Penal Code Section 186.22 is California’s street gang enhancement law. It is not a specific crime, but rather an umbrella of charges that can be applied to someone who commits a crime on behalf of, or for the benefit of, a criminal street gang. If you are convicted, in order for the gang enhancement law to attach to your sentence a prosecutor must prove:
- you actively participated in a gang
- knowing that the gang’s members “engage in a pattern of criminal gang activity”
- that you willfully “promoted, furthered, or assisted” in any felonious conduct by members of that gang
Crimes committed for the benefit of a criminal street gang can be used by the government to greatly lengthen the punishment for even relatively minor offenses. Serious crimes can result in gang enhancement penalties that add multiple years in California state prison as well as expensive fines.
Let Us Help You
If you are facing charges involving gang enhancement laws, it is essential that you have skilled representation. An experienced, diligent, and aggressive criminal law attorney can help you achieve a favorable result in your case.
At the Law Offices of Grant Bettencourt, we will work tirelessly to help you achieve a favorable result in your case.
Call The Law Offices of Grant Bettencourt for a consultation today.