CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC: Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment makes it a crime to use, install, or create a false compartment in a vehicle with the intent to hide controlled substances in it. Even if no drugs are found at the time of arrest, having a hidden compartment alone can result in criminal charges.
If you’ve been charged with violating this law, you could face serious outcomes like time in county jail and costly fines. To protect yourself from a serious conviction, you’ll need to hire a criminal defense attorney who has a thorough understanding of CA Health and Safety Codes.
Let’s take a closer look at this statute and how a lawyer can help you.
What is CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC: Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment?
As mentioned above, CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC criminalizes the use of secret compartments to transport, store, or hide illegal drugs. A “false compartment” refers to any intentionally fabricated or modified space in a vehicle that isn’t part of the manufacturer’s design. The law consists of the following two parts:
- 11366.8(a): This section makes it illegal to design, install, or construct a false compartment with the intent to use it to hide illegal drugs.
- 11366.8(b): This section makes it illegal to drive or operate a vehicle, knowing it has a false compartment that is being used or is intended to be used for the concealment of illegal drugs.
According to the law, a false compartment can refer to hidden panels, floorboards, dashboard modifications, or any space adapted to hide a controlled substance.
In addition, you can be charged under this law even if you are not the owner of the vehicle. Simply using the vehicle with knowledge of the false compartment may be enough for a conviction.
Penalties for Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment
CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC: Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment violations are classified as wobblers. That means the prosecution can file them as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the circumstances.
If your offense is considered a misdemeanor, you could face the following penalties if convicted:
- Up to 1 year in county jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- Mandatory probation, drug counseling, or community service
If your offense is considered a felony, you could face the following consequences if found guilty:
- Up to 3 years in state prison
- Higher fines
- Possible vehicle forfeiture
- A permanent felony conviction on your criminal record
Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony, a conviction can have far-reaching impacts on your life. If convicted, you’ll likely find it harder to secure employment, apply for housing, and qualify for certain professional licenses.
To avoid the worst outcomes, make sure you hire a skilled attorney who has a history of success with these types of cases.
How a Lawyer Can Help You Fight Charges Under CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC
If you’ve been accused of Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment under CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC, you’ll need skilled legal assistance to avoid a life-altering conviction.
Here’s what an experienced criminal defense attorney can do to protect you from severe penalties:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your alleged offense and your arrest
- Challenge the evidence that prosecutors have against you
- Argue that you didn’t know the compartment existed
- Question the legality of the traffic stop or search that led to your arrest and charges
- Negotiate with prosecutors to get your charges reduced to a less serious offense
- Consider whether a diversion program, substance abuse program, or other alternative sentencing option is right for you
- Represent you in court and fight to protect your freedom and permanent record
Defense Strategies Your Attorney May Use to Shield You from a Conviction
There are several defense strategies your lawyer may use to protect you from CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC: Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment charges. Depending on your unique circumstances, your lawyer may use one of the following legal arguments to defend you:
- The compartment was not created to conceal drugs but instead to store money, documents, or other legal items
- You didn’t build or modify the compartment
- You were unaware of the compartment’s existence
- Law enforcement discovered the compartment or controlled substances by means of an illegal search and seizure
- Police officers engaged in misconduct or violated your rights during the traffic stop or arrest
Get Connected With a Lawyer Who Can Protect You from a Serious Conviction
If you’re facing charges under CA Health and Safety Code Section 11366.8 HSC: Concealing Drugs in a False Compartment, you’ll need to hire an experienced attorney to protect you from life-changing consequences and reputational damage.
At Los Angeles DUI Lawyer, we connect individuals charged with drug-related crimes with skilled attorneys. We’ll help you find a lawyer who has the legal knowledge and resources required to win your case.
Contact us today to get connected with a lawyer who will see your case through from start to finish and protect your best interests throughout the process.
