Have you been charged with the unlawful use of tear gas in California under Penal Code 22810?
The state of California regulates the use of tear gas (or riot control agents). Some individuals are legally allowed to own tear gas for self-defense purposes. Other individuals – including those convicted of a felony – are not allowed to own tear gas for any reason.
Penal Code 22810 covers the unlawful use of tear gas in California. This charge can lead to fines and even jail time. Reach out to the Simmrin Law Group for more information about how to fight a PC 22810 charge. Contact us today by calling (310) 997-4688.
Basic Information About Tear Gas
Tear gas is a chemical compound that negatively impacts an individual’s respiratory system and skin. Tear gas is considered a riot-control agent. There are several common types of tear gas. Examples can include:
- Pepper spray
- CS, CR, or CN gas
- Mace
- PAVA spray
These mixtures contain different chemicals that all have similar effects. For example, tear gas usually irritates an individual’s:
- Lungs
- Skin
- Throat
- Mouth
- Eyes
Some people have a stronger reaction to tear gas than others. However, many individuals choose tear gas as a self-defense option, as it is not usually deadly. California allows many people to purchase tear gas for this purpose.
PC 22810 Charges in California
PC 22810 controls the purchase, ownership, and use of tear gas agents in the state of California. According to PC 22810, individuals are only allowed to purchase tear gas for the purpose of self-defense. However, some individuals are never allowed to purchase tear gas. This includes individuals:
- Under the age of 18
- Who have an addiction to narcotics
- Who were convicted of assault or a felony
Furthermore, individuals can face criminal charges if they use tear gas to commit an illegal act. The state of California takes these charges very seriously. Get more specific information about this charge by contacting the Simmrin Law Group at (310) 997-4688.
Other Charges Like the Unlawful Use of Tear Gas
The court system uses other charges similar to PC 22810 to prosecute the misuse of different weapons in our state. Examples of similar charges can include:
- Assault with caustic chemicals
- Possession of weapons in a public building
- Possession of weapons in a public transit facility
We’re ready to help you fight these criminal charges here in California. Just reach out to us today to get the help you need.
Results of a PC 22810 Conviction
PC 22810 is a wobbler in California. Wobblers are sometimes treated as misdemeanors. In other cases, they are prosecuted as felonies. These convictions can lead to:
- Up to one year of incarceration for a misdemeanor
- Up to three years of incarceration for a felony
Individuals can also face thousands of dollars in fines after a PC 22810 conviction. Reach out to a weapons charges lawyer in Los Angeles if you are facing misdemeanor or felony charges. Members of our team at the Simmrin Law Group are standing by to help you now.
Unlawful Use of Tear Gas and Legal Defenses
Many people turn to a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles after an accusation of the unlawful use of tear gas. Your lawyer can investigate the charges, work to block any evidence against you, and argue that:
- You only used tear gas in self-defense.
- You were legally allowed to own tear gas.
Most people in the state of California are legally allowed to buy or possess tear gas for self-defense purposes. However, we can help if you are being accused of owning tear gas illegally. Our goal is to successfully resolve or reduce your criminal charges after an arrest.
Ask a Lawyer About How to Fight an Unlawful Use of Tear Gas Charge Today
Need help handling Penal Code 22810 charges in California? Contact the Simmrin Law Group today. Our criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles will review your possible defenses and legal options with a free consultation today.
Reach out to us by calling (310) 997-4688. You can also complete our online contact form.